Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming treat that captures the essence of fall, then the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is your answer! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with sweet chocolate chips, creating a moist and flavorful quick bread that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this bread is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is not only its incredible flavor but also how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients you likely already have at home, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. Plus, the warm aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen will remind you of all the best things about autumn!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time—perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of chocolate and pumpkin makes this bread a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.
• Deliciously Moist: The pumpkin puree ensures that each slice is tender and full of flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a festive holiday gathering, this bread fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. You might already have most of these staples in your pantry!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 3 oz cooking oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup pumpkin puree

Add-Ins

• 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips (divided)
• oil spray

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use Different Chips: Swap half of the chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to enhance the warmth of the spices.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious option.

How to Make Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your bread bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set this mixture aside. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooking oil, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until well combined. Then add one cup of chocolate chips. Incorporating these wet ingredients thoroughly creates a smooth batter that will be light and fluffy once baked.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just blended. Be careful not to over mix! Scraping down the sides and bottom with a spatula ensures everything is well incorporated without overworking the batter.

Step 5: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Spray an 8” x 4” x 3” loaf pan with oil spray. Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Top with an additional 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to make every bite extra special!

Step 6: Bake It Up

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready! Enjoy watching it rise beautifully as it bakes—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Now you’re ready to savor every slice of this Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread!

Pro Tips for Making Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, your chocolate chip pumpkin bread will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using fresh pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and moisture of your bread. It brings a vibrant taste that complements the spices beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense loaf. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and prevents crumbling when slicing.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste! Adding ginger or cardamom can give your bread an extra layer of warmth and flavor, making it unique.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep your leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or wrap it tightly and freeze for longer storage. This way, you can enjoy this delicious treat anytime!

How to Serve Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

This chocolate chip pumpkin bread not only tastes divine but also looks inviting on any table. Here are some ideas to present this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal without overwhelming the flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Scatter some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative is perfect for topping each slice, adding a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries brightens up the plate and provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
• Coffee or tea: Pair your slice with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth enhances the spices in the bread while providing a cozy experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fruit alongside your pumpkin bread for a balanced breakfast or brunch option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring this Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it a delicious treat to have on hand for breakfast or snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a quick defrost.

Reheating

• For individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

How can I make the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread gluten-free?

You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your blend includes xanthan gum for better texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! If you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast it until soft, then scoop out the flesh and blend it until smooth. This will give you homemade pumpkin puree that works perfectly in this recipe.

What can I substitute if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can use chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor. Just keep in mind that adjusting the ingredients might change the overall taste slightly!

How do I know when my Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready to come out of the oven!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread! The combination of warm spices and rich chocolate creates a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring it yourself, this recipe brings joy to every bite. Happy baking!