Name: Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (melted); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 2 large eggs (or flax eggs); 1 cup light brown sugar (or coconut sugar); 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey/agave); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey); 2-3 tablespoons milk (or almond/oat milk)

As the leaves turn and a crispness fills the air, it’s the perfect time to retreat into the kitchen and whip up something truly delightful. This Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread stands out as a cozy fall treat, weaving together the warm, inviting flavors of chai spices and the rich sweetness of maple syrup. One of the best parts? You can have it ready in just about 10 minutes of mixing! With its moist texture and intoxicating aroma that fills your home, it’s not only a delicious bread but also a treasured comfort food that makes even the busiest days feel special. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for those looking for gluten-free options. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the savory scents of autumn while creating a new favorite recipe? Let’s get started on this scrumptious journey together!

Why is this bread a must-try?

Warm, Inviting Flavors: This Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is a delightful blend of spices that capture the essence of fall, bringing warmth to every bite.
Quick Prep: You’ll only need about 10 minutes of mixing time, making it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.
Moist and Delicious: The combination of pumpkin and yogurt ensures a soft loaf that stays fresh for days, ideal for sharing or enjoying alone.
Versatility: Easily make it gluten-free with simple swaps or add your favorite nuts for a unique twist. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea and elevate your cozy mornings!
Seasonal Comfort: This bread transforms any moment into a celebration of autumn, so if you love flavors that embrace the season, check out my recipes for Knead Artisan Bread or Tacos Scrambled Eggs for more homemaking joy.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; canned or homemade fresh pumpkin works beautifully.
Greek Yogurt – Contributes fluffiness and adds protein; sour cream makes a great substitute.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides structure; try flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Light Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar can help reduce refined sugar intake.
Maple Syrup – Infuses natural sweetness with a unique flavor; honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; no substitute is needed here.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives the bread its base structure; gluten-free flour is an excellent option if needed.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential for leavening and achieving a light texture; make sure they aren’t expired for best results.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t skip this step!
Ground Cinnamon, Cardamom, Ginger, Allspice, Cloves – Create the signature chai spice profile; opt for pre-mixed chai spice for convenience.

For the Maple Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives it a smooth texture; adjust based on desired sweetness.
Maple Syrup – Adds flavor and sweetness; you can use honey for a different twist.
Milk – Helps achieve the right drizzling consistency; almond or oat milk work well for dairy-free options.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread from sticking, ensuring a smooth release once baked.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, eggs, light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes of vigorous whisking. The mixture should have a creamy texture and an inviting aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the chai spices. Ensure the dry ingredients are evenly combined, and make sure there are no lumps, which is crucial to achieving the perfect texture in your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients with a rubber spatula. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy but cohesive. This step is essential to keeping each slice of bread delightfully tender and moist.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top becomes a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After this, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital, as cooling before slicing helps maintain its moist texture.

Step 7: Prepare Maple Glaze
While the bread cools, prepare the maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, maple syrup, and just enough milk to create a drizzle-able consistency. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the milk as necessary to reach your desired thickness. This glaze will add a sweet, finishing touch to your pumpkin bread.

Step 8: Glaze and Slice
Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the maple glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before slicing the bread, which will enhance the presentation and ensure that each piece is perfectly sweetened. Enjoy your homemade Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread!

Make Ahead Options

These Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy fall weeks! You can mix the wet ingredients and combine them with the dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. For optimal taste, remember to bring the mixture to room temperature before baking. You can also bake and glaze the bread 3 days ahead of your intended enjoyment—just store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy a delicious treat that feels freshly baked!

Expert Tips for Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and better rise during baking.
Avoid Overmixing: Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread texture.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it comes out clean. If the bread is underbaked, it will be moist but not fully set.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before applying the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting away and ensures a beautiful finish.
Storage Tip: Store the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it fresh and delicious.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread with these delightful variations!

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt in place of Greek yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free option that still retains its delicious texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cozy bread accessible for friends with gluten sensitivities! It’s just as fluffy and delicious.
Sweetness Boost: For an extra touch of sweetness, add 1/4 cup of turbinado sugar on top before baking for a delightful caramelized crust. This adds more than just sweetness; it gives a crunchy texture too!
Nuts & Seeds: Incorporate 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or sprinkle in some pumpkin seeds for a nutty twist that complements the autumn flavors beautifully.
Chai Spice Swap: If you’re short on time, simply use a pre-mixed chai spice blend instead of measuring out individual spices. It’s a convenient shortcut without sacrificing flavor!
Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in every slice. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate becomes a heavenly indulgence that pairs wonderfully with coffee!
Maple alternative: Switch the maple syrup for honey or agave nectar if you’re looking for a different kind of sweetness. Each alternative brings a unique flavor that can change the whole profile of the bread.

Each variation brings its charm to the table, ensuring that your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is always a delightful experience. Looking for more cozy recipes? Check out my Knead Artisan Bread or whip up some Tacos Scrambled Eggs for a warm weekend brunch!

What to Serve with Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

As the enticing aroma of chai spices fills your home, consider these delightful pairings that can elevate your cozy fall meal.

Creamy Butter: A smear of salted butter enhances the rich flavors, adding an indulgent touch while complementing the spices perfectly.
Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese: This sweet spread marries cream cheese with cinnamon and sugar, offering a velvety contrast that elevates every slice.
Fresh Coffee: A warm cup of your favorite coffee balances the sweetness of the bread, creating a comforting morning ritual.
Spiced Chai Latte: Dive deeper into the flavors of chai by pairing this bread with a spiced chai latte, enhancing the aromatic experience.
Roasted Pear Slices: The natural sweetness and slight acidity of roasted pears add freshness, providing a delightful texture contrast to the moist bread.
Maple Pecan Ice Cream: This unique dessert brings a creamy finish, with nutty and sweet flavors that beautifully match the bread’s profile.
Apple Cider: A glass of warm or chilled apple cider makes for a classic fall pairing, enhancing the autumnal vibe of your meal.
Nutty Granola: Serving this bread alongside some crunchy granola topped with yogurt can offer a delightful texture and nutritional boost.
Caramel Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top transforms your bread into a dessert-worthy treat that perfectly complements its flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it out of direct sunlight to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer chilled bread, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to keep it sealed to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the bread in slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin puree for the bread?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, opt for 100% pure pumpkin without added spices or sweeteners for the best flavor. You can use canned pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting fresh pumpkin, which yields a wonderfully rich taste.

What is the best way to store leftover Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread?
The more the merrier! Store your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, and if so, how?
Definitely! For freezing, slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What should I do if my Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread turns out too dense?
No worries! If your bread feels too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. For a lighter loaf next time, be gentle when folding the dry ingredients into the wet, and consider using a kitchen scale for precise measurements—especially for flour.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Very! If you’re making this bread for people with dietary restrictions, consider substituting Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative to make it suitable for vegan diets. Additionally, using gluten-free flour can accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Always check for possible allergens in spices and sweeteners used, like nuts or specific sugars.