Name: Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup melted butter (substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (can swap for sour cream); 2 large eggs (ensure fresh for best results); 1 cup light brown sugar (or coconut sugar); 1/2 cup maple syrup (opt for pure maple syrup); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (adjust to taste); 1 cup powdered sugar (sift for best consistency); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (use pure from the batter); 2 tablespoons milk (can substitute with non-dairy)

As the crisp autumn air dances through my kitchen, the enchanting scent of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread takes me on a delightful journey. This quick bread, infused with aromatic chai spices and the rich sweetness of maple syrup, captures the essence of fall in every soft, moist slice. What’s not to love? Not only does it bring warmth to chilly mornings, but it’s also a breeze to whip up—perfect for busy days when you crave something homemade. Whether paired with your morning coffee or savored during a cozy afternoon tea, this pumpkin bread is destined to be a seasonal favorite. Are you ready to fill your home with its comforting aroma? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why is this recipe perfect for fall?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The moment you start baking, the sweet and spicy fragrances of chai spices fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

Moist and Delicious: Each slice is incredibly soft and moist, making it the ideal treat for any occasion.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a snap to make, perfect for busy parents or anyone looking to enjoy homemade goodness without fuss.

Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy it as a standalone snack—it’s delightful in every way!

Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up and share with friends or family; it’s sure to impress and spread warmth this fall season.

For another quick and nourishing experience, try our Breakfast Tacos Scrambled for an easy yet flavorful start to your day!

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

For the Batter
• Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; canned or homemade puree works well.
• Greek Yogurt – Contributes to the bread’s soft texture and adds a slight tang; swap for sour cream if desired.
• Large Eggs – Acts as a binder, providing structure; ensure fresh eggs for best results.
• Light Brown Sugar (or Coconut Sugar) – Offers sweetness and depth of flavor; can also use granulated sugar, but expect a flavor difference.
• Maple Syrup – Enhances sweetness and adds a unique flavor; opt for pure maple syrup for the best taste.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances overall flavor; it’s optional, but highly recommended for richness.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a wheat-free version.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to make the bread rise.
• Baking Powder – Supports the rising process along with baking soda for optimal texture.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; it’s essential for balance.
• Ground Cinnamon, Cardamom, Ginger, Allspice, and Cloves – These spices create the signature chai flavor; adjust to personal taste for your ideal chai spice profile.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet, smooth glaze; always sift for the best consistency.
• More Maple Syrup – Enhances flavor in the glaze; for an extra touch, use the same pure maple syrup from the batter.
• Milk – Thins the glaze to a drizzling consistency; substitute with a non-dairy option if you prefer.

This delightful Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread recipe is not only simple but also bursting with the warm flavors of fall! Enjoy crafting this moist, aromatic treat that’s destined to please any palate.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for it to heat up, take a 9×5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides. This will help the bread slide out easily once baked, giving you a perfect loaf of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread that doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and eggs until the mixture is beautifully smooth and creamy. Then, add the light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined. The mixture should have a rich, inviting color and a creamy texture, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your chosen chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures an even distribution of flavors in the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, creating that signature warmth and spice in every bite.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to incorporate until just combined; the batter should look slightly lumpy but fantastic. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread, so stop as soon as there are no visible dry spots—this will help maintain the softness and moisture.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. The batter should fill the pan about three-quarters full; this will allow room for the bread to rise and develop a lovely dome shape as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown, and the aroma of chai spices will fill your kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table.

Step 7: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to finish setting up, ensuring a perfect texture and flavor before slicing.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
For the finishing touch, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth drizzling consistency. Adjust the milk as necessary to achieve your desired thickness. This glaze will enhance the flavor of the bread, providing a sweet contrast to the spices.

Step 9: Glaze the Bread
Once your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is completely cool, drizzle the prepared glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing, allowing it to create a beautiful and enticing presentation. Now, it’s ready to be served alongside your favorite warm beverage!

Make Ahead Options

These Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor. Additionally, the wet ingredients (butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, eggs, light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla) can be combined up to 24 hours prior and refrigerated. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before mixing with the dry ingredients to prevent uneven baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold the mixtures together, pour into the pan, and bake as directed for fresh, comforting bread with all its delightful flavors intact!

How to Store and Freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy it fresh for breakfast or as a snack!

Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, store the bread in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating: For the best taste, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

What to Serve with Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

As the aroma of fall fills your home, it’s time to create a warm and inviting meal that perfectly complements your delightful Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread.

Creamy Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of cream cheese brings a tangy contrast to the bread’s sweetness, making each bite heavenly. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting afternoon snack.
Steamy Masala Chai: Enhance your chai experience by enjoying a warm cup of masala chai. The spices harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin bread, creating a cozy flavor pairing that warms the soul.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness to your meal. The juicy apples and pears contrast wonderfully with the rich spices, making each bite delightful.
Apple Cider: Serve chilled or warm apple cider alongside the bread for a nostalgic autumn touch. Its slight sweetness complements the bread, evoking memories of crisp fall days.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Top your slices with a light swirl of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. It adds a creamy texture that melds beautifully with the pumpkin and chai flavors.
Spiced Nuts: A handful of spiced nuts provides a crunchy contrast, introducing a savory element to balance the sweet tones of the bread. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those with a sweet tooth, pairing with soft chocolate chip cookies creates a delightful dessert duo, perfect for sharing with family.
Herbal Tea: A cup of chamomile or mint herbal tea offers a soothing touch. The calming flavors allow the spices in the bread to shine, making it an ideal pairing for a relaxing afternoon.
Maple Pecan Ice Cream: Indulge your dessert cravings by pairing a slice with a scoop of maple pecan ice cream. The flavors tie in beautifully with the chai-spiced bread for a decadent treat.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread to suit your taste buds!

Coconut Sugar: Substitute light brown sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor that enhances the richness.
Chai Spice Blend: Use a store-bought chai spice blend instead of individual spices to save time and simplify your prep—perfect for busy bakers!
Nutty Addition: For an extra crunch, add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter, elevating both texture and flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in ¾ cup of chocolate chips before baking to create a sweet surprise in each slice—perfect for chocolate lovers!
Zesty Twist: Grate the zest of one orange into the batter for a refreshing citrus note that beautifully contrasts the earthy pumpkin.
Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for almond or coconut yogurt, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat whether they’re avoiding dairy or not.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely grated fresh ginger to the batter to amp up the chai spices.
Mini Loaves: Pour the batter into mini loaf pans for individualized servings, perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family.

As you explore these variations, you might also enjoy our Knead Artisan Bread for a perfect alongside your warming chai flavors!

Expert Tips for Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baked texture.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can cause the bread to turn dense and heavy, losing that lovely soft texture.
Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the glaze. If you glaze while warm, the glaze may melt into the bread.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This ensures your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is perfectly baked.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of chai spices to suit your taste. A little extra cinnamon or a touch less ginger can make all the difference in flavor!

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Look for a vibrant orange color and a smooth texture when choosing your pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin should have no added sugars or flavors for the best results. If you opt for homemade, use sugar pumpkins which are smaller and sweeter than the typical carving pumpkins—these provide the best flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread?
Very simply! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the bread for up to 1 week; just ensure it’s wrapped properly to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let it cool completely. Then, slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

What should I do if my bread turns out dense?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Next time, be careful to fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently until just combined. Additionally, ensure your baking soda and powder are fresh, as this can affect how well the bread rises.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. I often use a blend that includes xanthan gum, as it helps with the structure. Just check that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free to ensure the whole recipe works for your dietary needs.

Is this bread safe for pets?
Great question! While the ingredients in Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread are generally safe for humans, some spices like nutmeg can be toxic to pets, especially dogs. It’s best to avoid letting your furry friends have any of this delicious bread, choosing instead treats specifically made for them.