Name: Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (pure pumpkin, not pie filling); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (or sour cream); 2 large Eggs; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (or coconut sugar); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (use pure maple syrup); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 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; 1/2 teaspoon Allspice; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (adjust for sweetness); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (use pure maple syrup); 1 tablespoon Milk (adjust for consistency)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the leaves begin to turn crisp and the air fills with the scent of warm spices, my kitchen transforms into a cozy autumn retreat. This Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread captures all of those comforting fall vibes, inviting you to slow down and savor the season. With its delightful blend of aromatic spices and sweet maple syrup, this quick bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a breeze to prepare—just 10 minutes of hands-on time! Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast with a steaming cup of coffee or as a delightful afternoon snack, this recipe delivers a soft, moist loaf that pairs beautifully with your favorite fall beverages. Ready to indulge in the flavors of fall? Let’s get baking!

yfbpyeky1dekhqsm4b1z

Why Is This Bread a Fall Favorite?

Incredibly Moist: The addition of pumpkin puree and Greek yogurt ensures a soft, tender loaf that melts in your mouth.

Aromatic Spices: Infused with chai spices, this bread provides a warm, inviting flavor that will fill your kitchen and heart with cozy vibes.

Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can whip up this delightful treat effortlessly, making it perfect for busy mornings or surprise guests.

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the spices or add in your favorite nuts for a personal touch. If you love flavors like cinnamon from Cinnamon Applesauce Bread, this will be a hit!

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or holiday brunches, it’s a recipe that will impress without the fuss.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Pumpkin Puree – The main flavor base that adds moisture; ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
Greek Yogurt – Contributes tenderness and moisture; substitute with sour cream if needed.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds structure; essential for this recipe.
Light Brown Sugar or Coconut Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with granulated sugar if necessary.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens and flavors the bread uniquely; use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; optional but highly recommended.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential for proper leavening; do not substitute.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Spices – Ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, and cloves create the chai flavor; substitute with a chai spice mix if desired.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Add sweetness and a beautiful shine; adjust the amount based on your preference.
Maple Syrup – Sweetens the glaze with a complementary flavor; pure maple syrup is the best choice.
Milk – Makes the glaze drizzle-ready; use just enough for your desired consistency.

This Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is a cozy treat you won’t want to miss!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the chai spice maple pumpkin bread from sticking and help it release easily once baked. Set the prepared pan aside as you move on to mixing the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, eggs, light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well incorporated. You should see a rich, velvety consistency, signaling it’s ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your chosen chai spices. This step ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and flavor. Once blended, gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 4: Pour Into the Loaf Pan
Carefully pour the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface. This will help your chai spice maple pumpkin bread bake evenly in the oven. Make sure the batter is evenly distributed all the way to the edges for consistent texture and doneness.

Step 5: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; you’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. This golden-brown loaf will fill your kitchen with the cozy aromas of fall.

Step 6: Cool on a Wire Rack
Once baked, remove the chai spice maple pumpkin bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack. Let it cool completely to room temperature, which not only makes slicing easier but also enhances its flavors.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and just enough milk to achieve a smooth, drizzle-ready consistency. This glaze adds a sweet finish to your loaf. Adjust the thickness to your liking, keeping it pourable but not too runny for the perfect topping.

Step 8: Glaze and Slice
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to gently flow down the sides for an inviting look. Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before slicing into the chai spice maple pumpkin bread. This final touch adds a delightful sweetness that complements the warm spices beautifully.

rdinpopjsyolqim5mld3

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Variations

Invite your inner chef to explore the magic of customizing this delightful quick bread recipe; the aromatic possibilities are endless!

Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a subtly different yet equally comforting flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free yogurt in place of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free adaptation. It retains the moisture and richness without compromise.
Spice Blend: Opt for a pre-made chai spice mix if you want to simplify your spice list while still enjoying robust flavors. It’s a time-saver without sacrificing that cozy essence.
Nutty Surprise: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and extra texture contrast. The nuts pair beautifully with the warm spices.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent touch; the richness will elevate the flavors and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Zesty Citrus: Enhance your bread with the zest of one orange or lemon. This bright addition cuts through the sweetness and elevates the chai flavor profile.
Heat It Up: For those who like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground black pepper to the spices. A little heat complements the sweetness beautifully.
Savory Variation: Replace maple syrup with honey and add some rosemary or thyme for a unique twist; this herbaceous version makes a great pairing for savory cheeses!

These variations not only transform the vibe of your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread but also open the door to limitless creativity in the kitchen. If you’re looking for more delightful breads like this, check out Cinnamon Applesauce Bread or Cheddar Beer Bread for new inspirations to try!

Expert Tips for Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to prevent it from crumbling and ensure clean slices.
Fresh Spices Matter: Use fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor; old spices lose potency and can affect the taste of your chai spice maple pumpkin bread.
Flour Measurement: Accurately measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid dense bread. Too much flour can lead to dryness.
Glazing Pace: If preparing ahead of time, glaze just before serving. This keeps the bread’s surface from becoming soggy and preserves texture.
Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream, and adjust the spices to suit your taste; personalizing will enhance your chai spice maple pumpkin bread experience.

How to Store and Freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain its moist texture.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate your chai spice maple pumpkin bread in an airtight container for up to a week; it may dry out slightly, so consider toasting before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it can last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently in the microwave before serving.

Reheating: To reheat, slice and warm each piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or toast for a lovely crisp finish that revives the flavors beautifully.

What to Serve with Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Savor the essence of fall by building a delightful meal around this cozy quick bread, ideal for any occasion.

Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a refreshing contrast that enhances the bread’s spices. The coolness of the yogurt beautifully balances the warmth of the chai spices.
Spiced Chai Tea: Embrace the flavors of chai by pairing this bread with a hot cup of spiced chai. The aromatic notes will harmonize perfectly, creating an inviting and comforting experience.
Toasted Nuts: Serve a side of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch. The nuttiness complements the sweetness of the bread while adding texture that delights the palate.
Apple Cinnamon Compote: Drizzle warm apple cinnamon compote over your slices for an extra layer of flavor. The sweetness of apples married with cinnamon echoes the spices in the bread.
Cream Cheese Spread: A light smear of cream cheese elevates this bread to a whole new level of indulgence. The creamy tanginess balances the sweetness, making each bite truly memorable.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Roasted maple-glazed carrots make a lovely accompaniment, with their sweet and savory notes enhancing the overall meal while keeping with the pumpkin theme.
Cinnamon Vanilla Ice Cream: For those afternoon treats, serve a slice with a scoop of cinnamon vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy dessert contrasts beautifully with the warm bread, making it a delightful finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the wet ingredients (butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, eggs, light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing them together and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices) and keep them in another container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake as instructed for the same delicious taste. This meal prep not only simplifies your baking day but ensures a fresh loaf right when you need it!

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Always choose pure pumpkin puree over pumpkin pie filling for this recipe. Look for a deep orange color and a smooth texture without any added sugars or spices. Canned is convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting a small sugar pumpkin and pureeing the flesh.

How should I store leftover Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread?
You can store your chai spice maple pumpkin bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but be prepared for a slightly drier texture. Just a quick toast can revive its moistness beautifully!

Can I freeze Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature or microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds for a lovely warm treat.

What if my bread turns out too dense?
If your chai spice maple pumpkin bread is dense, it might be due to too much flour or overmixing the batter. Always measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Mix until just combined; lumps are okay! If you think the batter needs a little help, folding in air gently can improve the texture.

Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Very! To make a gluten-free chai spice maple pumpkin bread, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend ensuring that your baking powder and any additives are also gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur. This way, everyone can enjoy this cozy fall treat without worry.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! If you’re baking for others, remember that the recipe includes eggs and dairy (butter and yogurt). You can easily make this dairy-free by using coconut oil and a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Always check for allergies related to the spices and adapt the recipe as needed to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious chai spice maple pumpkin bread.