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Fall is the perfect time to bake, and nothing says autumn like chocolate chip pumpkin bread! This simple and flavorful recipe combines sweet pumpkin and rich chocolate for a delicious treat. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, I’ll guide you through every step. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of this cozy, seasonal delight!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: This chocolate chip pumpkin bread is incredibly moist and bursting with rich pumpkin flavor, making it a perfect fall treat.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfectly Spiced: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger complement the pumpkin beautifully, creating a cozy aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Chocolatey Goodness: The addition of semi-sweet chocolate chips adds a delicious contrast to the pumpkin flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
To make a delicious Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed firmly
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
These ingredients mix well to create a rich and moist bread. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor, while the sugars provide sweetness. The spices give it that warm, cozy taste we love in fall.
Optional Ingredients (Nuts and Variations)
You can enhance your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread with some optional ingredients. Consider adding:
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup pecans (a great alternative)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist
These additions add crunch and extra flavor. Nuts bring a nice texture, while dried fruits add sweetness and chewiness. Feel free to mix and match to find what you love best.
Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients
When picking your ingredients, focus on quality. Here are some tips:
– Use fresh canned pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
– Choose high-quality chocolate chips; they make a big difference.
– Look for pure vanilla extract, not imitation. It enhances the taste.
– Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
These small choices lead to a richer flavor and better texture. Pay attention to details, and your bread will shine!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake. Next, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This helps the bread come out easily when it’s done.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Crack in 3 large eggs that are at room temperature. Lastly, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth. You want a nice, even blend.
Combining the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Next, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients well to combine them fully.
Folding in Add-ins
Gradually add the dry mix to your wet mixture. Stir gently until you don’t see dry flour anymore. It’s okay if the batter has some lumps. This keeps your bread soft. Now, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for some crunch. Make sure they’re spread evenly in the batter.
Baking and Cooling
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out. Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check doneness by sticking a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the sweet smell as it cools!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your chocolate chip pumpkin bread, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. When adding dry ingredients, stop as soon as you see no dry flour. Lumps are okay! They help create a moist crumb. Use room temperature eggs and oil for a smoother batter. This helps the bread rise well and stay soft.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
One common mistake is using cold ingredients. Always use room temperature eggs and pumpkin puree. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to clump. Make sure to grease your loaf pan well or use parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes removing the bread easier. Lastly, check your oven temperature with a thermometer. An oven that is too hot can dry out your bread.
Flavor Enhancements (Spices and Extracts)
You can boost the flavor of your pumpkin bread with spices. Besides cinnamon, try adding nutmeg and ginger. These spices complement pumpkin well. You can also use vanilla extract for a richer taste. If you want to try something new, add a hint of maple syrup. This adds sweetness and a unique flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before baking for extra chocolatey goodness!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your spices are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency, which affects the overall taste of your pumpkin bread.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs that are at room temperature can help create a smoother batter and promote even baking. Take them out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before use.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread rather than a fluffy one.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the texture and makes for cleaner slices.

Variations
Adding Different Mix-Ins (Chocolate, Fruits, Nuts)
You can make this bread even better by adding different mix-ins. Chocolate chips are a must, but you can also add fruits and nuts. Try adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for a nice crunch. You can also use dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweet twist. Each mix-in brings new flavors to your loaf. Experiment to find your favorite.
Making it Gluten-Free
If you want a gluten-free version, it’s easy to change the flour. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum in it. This helps to bind the bread. Follow the same steps in the recipe. The taste will still be great, and your bread will be safe for gluten-free diets.
Seasonal Twists (Using Spice Blends)
You can add seasonal spices for a twist. Instead of the usual spices, try a pumpkin pie spice mix. This mix usually has cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. It gives a warm flavor perfect for fall. You can also add a bit of vanilla bean paste for a richer taste. These small changes can make your pumpkin bread unique and delightful.
Storage Info
How to Store Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Store your chocolate chip pumpkin bread in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist. If you don’t have a container, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigeration.
Freezing for Later Use
Freezing pumpkin bread is easy and keeps it tasty. First, let the bread cool completely. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double layer prevents freezer burn. Label it with the date. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Best Practices for Freshness
To keep your bread fresh, avoid cutting it until you’re ready to serve. The first slice exposes the inside to air. You can also add a slice of apple or a piece of bread in the container to keep it moist. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying your pumpkin bread. Following these tips will help you enjoy your delicious treat longer!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just roast a pumpkin until soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and mash it. This fresh pumpkin adds great flavor. However, canned pumpkin is more consistent in texture and moisture. It’s easier to use too. If you choose fresh, make sure to drain excess water.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
You can check for doneness using a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. The top should look firm and slightly golden. If it still looks wet, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I substitute sugars for healthier options?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners. Try using honey or maple syrup. They will add unique flavors as well. If you want to reduce sugar, use less brown sugar or granulated sugar. Just remember, this can change the texture. Taste the batter to ensure it’s sweet enough for you.
What can I serve with pumpkin bread?
Pumpkin bread pairs well with many things. You can serve it with cream cheese spread for richness. A little butter also works great. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for added sweetness. For a drink, pair it with coffee or warm apple cider.
You learned how to make chocolate chip pumpkin bread today. We covered essential ingredients and helpful tips for choosing the best ones. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide you through the mixing, baking, and cooling process. You discovered variations and flavor enhancements to make your bread unique. Lastly, I provided storage advice to keep your bread fresh.
With these insights, you can bake delicious chocolate chip pumpkin bread that everyone will enjoy. Happy bakin
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
A moist and flavorful pumpkin bread with chocolate chips and spices.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 200 kcal
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed firmly
- 1 2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly or lining it with parchment paper for easy release later on.
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the pumpkin puree and add the vegetable oil, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Stir to combine these dry ingredients well.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently. It’s important to mix just until you can no longer see dry flour; don't worry if the batter has some lumps—it’s crucial not to overmix for the best texture.
Carefully fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, if you choose to include them. Make sure they are distributed evenly throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it out evenly.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Once the baking is complete, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice the pumpkin bread into thick pieces and serve it warm for the best experience. It can be elevated with a dollop of cream cheese spread atop each slice or lightly dusted with powdered sugar for an added sweet touch.
Keyword chocolate chip, dessert, fall recipes, pumpkin bread
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