Name: Deliciously Moist Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread for Fall
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1/2 cup Cooking Oil; 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Sugar; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree; 1 cup Chocolate Chips; 1/4 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (For topping before baking); to taste Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional for serving)

The moment cool autumn air sweeps in, I can’t help but gravitate toward my cozy kitchen, where fall flavors come alive. There’s something magical about whipping up a delicious loaf of Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread that’s both easy to bake and impossible to resist. This delightful quick bread features a soft, moist crumb, enriched with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a comforting treat for any gathering or an indulgent snack at home. Not only is this recipe a fantastic way to embrace the season, but it also brings a lovely aroma that fills your space, inviting everyone in. Whether you enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or as part of your festive table, this Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is sure to be a hit. Curious about how to make this fall favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Pumpkin Bread Irresistible?

Amazingly Moist: This Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread features a tender, moist crumb that’s perfect for cozy fall afternoons.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up effortlessly.

Fall Flavors: Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread perfectly captures the essence of the season.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it with or without chocolate chips, or even integrate some nuts for an added crunch.

Delightful Aroma: The heavenly scent that wafts through your kitchen will entice everyone to come and indulge.

For an extra treat, try serving with a side of cream cheese frosting, or check out my recipe for Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito for a delicious pairing. This recipe truly embodies the spirit of fall baking!

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

• Get ready for a baking adventure with these deliciously simple components!

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure that holds your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread together.
Baking Powder – A key leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully.
Baking Soda – Reacts with the pumpkin to create a lighter texture, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Salt – Enhances the flavors; feel free to switch to kosher salt for a coarser texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness, making your kitchen smell like fall; can use pumpkin pie spice for convenience.
Ground Cloves – Deepens flavor and balances sweetness, or replace with allspice if preferred.
Ground Nutmeg – Contributes a nutty warmth; extra cinnamon can be a lovely alternative.
Cooking Oil – Keeps the bread wonderfully moist; for richer flavor, melted butter is a fantastic substitute.
Large Eggs – Binds all ingredients while contributing moisture; for a vegan twist, flax eggs can work just as well.
Sugar – Sweetens and browns your bread beautifully; consider reducing for a less sweet version.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, bringing moisture and that delightful pumpkin flavor; use either canned or fresh.
Chocolate Chips – Adds pockets of sweetness throughout; can be swapped with nuts or dried fruit if you’re feeling adventurous!

For Optional Toppings

Extra Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle some on top before baking for an irresistible gooey finish!
Cream Cheese Frosting – For those extra sweet moments, a drizzle of this frosting takes it to another level.

Get ready to experience the magic of fall with this delightful Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, including a mixing bowl, loaf pan, and measuring cups, to streamline your baking process.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. These aromatic spices will add warmth and depth to your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. Set this dry mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of cooking oil, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of pumpkin puree. Mix these ingredients well until they are fully blended and smooth. This creamy mixture will be the foundation of your delicious bread, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients
Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients and gently stir until just blended. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is to combine the ingredients without developing gluten too much, keeping your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread soft and tender.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. These chocolate morsels will melt and create delightful pockets of sweetness in your moist Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. If you prefer, you can reserve some chips to sprinkle on top for an extra treat.

Step 6: Prepare the Pan
Grease an 8″ x 4″ loaf pan using cooking spray or a smear of oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. To enhance the chocolate flavor, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over the surface of the batter before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Keep an eye on the bread; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be lightly golden brown, inviting you to indulge in this seasonal delight.

Step 8: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 45 minutes. This cooling step is essential for developing the perfect texture. Afterward, gently transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely, enhancing its moist crumb even further.

What to Serve with Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

The warmth of spices and a hint of chocolate create a cozy delight in your kitchen, but how can you make it an unforgettable autumn feast?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes offers a savory contrast that beautifully balances the sweet notes of pumpkin bread.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider pairs perfectly, enhancing the fall flavor profile and offering a comforting sip alongside your treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill, melting slightly into the warm bread for a heavenly experience.
Roasted Butternut Squash: The earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash brings complementary flavors, making your meal more vibrant and filling.
Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing kick, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing every bite of chocolate chip pumpkin bread.
Maple Glaze: Drizzling a maple glaze over the bread introduces a new layer of sweetness and enhances its autumnal allure, making it irresistible.
Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of herbal tea with hints of cinnamon or ginger invites warmth, perfect for a cozy afternoon alongside your pumpkin treat.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For those seeking an extra indulgence, a light spread of cream cheese frosting transforms the pumpkin bread into a festive dessert highlight.

Elevate your chocolate chip pumpkin bread experience with these delightful pairings that celebrate the essence of fall!

Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and optimal rising in your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
Avoid Overmixing: When merging wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 45 minutes. This helps set the crumb and makes slicing easier later on.
Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary between ovens. Use a toothpick test; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Store Wisely: Keep your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread covered to maintain moisture. Enjoy it within 4 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Variations

Embrace your inner chef and make this recipe truly your own with these delightful adaptations!

Nutty Crunch: Substitute chocolate chips with chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin.
Fruity Twist: Consider swapping in dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet and tart bite. This variation will surprise your taste buds and add a fun alternative for those who love fruity flavors.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Replace the individual spices with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice for a quicker option. This blend offers a lovely warmth that encapsulates everything we adore about fall baking!
Banana Bread Remix: Incorporate 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas to make a delightful “Pumpkin Banana Bread.” The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a delicious combination that’s hard to resist.
Cocoa Delight: Sprinkle in cocoa powder (around 1/4 cup) to create a chocolatey version of the bread. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the pumpkin, making for an indulgent treat.
Vegan-Friendly: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and substitute cooking oil with coconut oil for a vegan adaptation that keeps the texture lovely and moist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat element that brings an unexpected twist to the traditional sweetness. This contrasting flavor profile can elevate your bread beautifully!
Everlasting Flavor: Drizzle some maple syrup into the batter for an added depth of sweetness that harmonizes with the pumpkin flavor. It’s a subtle yet deliciously comforting enhancement!

For more delightful ideas, you might enjoy trying these recipes for a full fall-themed meal: Chipotle Pineapple Chicken Tacos or a refreshing Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can mix the dry ingredients up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the wet ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours; just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before mixing. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, fold in the chocolate chips, and proceed with the baking instructions. This approach keeps the flavors vibrant and ensures that your loaf will be just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Store your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months for long-lasting enjoyment. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely go for pure pumpkin puree, whether canned or homemade! If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then puree it until smooth. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that might alter the taste of your bread.

How do I store Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread to keep it fresh?
To keep your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread moist and delicious, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, storing it in the refrigerator can extend its freshness to about a week!

Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread?
Yes, you can freeze your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread! Start by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What should I do if my pumpkin bread turns out too dense?
If your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is denser than you’d like, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Remember to combine the dry and wet ingredients gently until just blended. Also, ensure you’re using enough baking powder and baking soda. If measurements are off, it can affect the rise. A gentle touch is key!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread contains common allergens such as gluten (in flour), eggs, and dairy (in chocolate chips). For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan option. Always double-check labels on packaged ingredients for potential allergens!

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
The more the merrier when it comes to customization! Instead of chocolate chips, you can substitute with chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or raisins for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a more traditional approach, try omitting chocolate entirely and sprinkling the top with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for a delightful twist.