Ah, the aroma of pumpkin spice and chocolate wafting through the kitchen—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! I absolutely adore making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, especially as autumn rolls around. There’s something incredibly comforting about this recipe; perhaps it’s the nostalgia of being in Grandma’s kitchen, where the simple act of baking seems to transform ordinary days into cherished memories.
I remember the first time I tried this delightful treat. My friend baked it for a gathering, and I couldn’t believe the cozy fusion of flavors. The sweet pumpkin paired with the rich chocolate chips was nothing short of magical. Now, I often whip up this recipe for friends and family, and it’s always a hit. So, let’s dive in and share the joy of making this delicious bread!
What’s in Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?
All-purpose flour: The backbone of our bread! It gives structure and a tender crumb. I usually go for unbleached all-purpose flour for a more natural flavor.
Sugar: We’re using granulated sugar to sweeten things up. It caramelizes beautifully during baking, adding another layer of flavor to our loaf.
Baking soda & baking powder: These dynamic duos are essential for leavening. They help our bread rise and get that lovely fluffy texture!
Cinnamon: A must in pumpkin recipes! The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon really ties everything together and enhances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Salt: Just a touch helps to balance the sweet and spicy elements, brightening all the flavors.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the show! I usually opt for canned pumpkin purée because it’s convenient and consistently delicious, but feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
Eggs: They act as a binder and help provide moisture, making our bread delectably moist.
Oil: I recommend vegetable oil for a neutral flavor, but you could also use coconut oil for a slight tropical twist!
Vanilla extract: This just elevates the sweetness and brings everything together perfectly. A splash of pure vanilla extract makes all the difference!
Chocolate chips: The tempting treats that melt into gooey pockets throughout the bread. I love using semi-sweet chocolate chips for that perfect balance of sweetness.
Is Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest—while this bread might not be a health food, it definitely has some redeeming qualities!
Pumpkin puree: This is loaded with vitamins like A, C, and E, plus fiber that’s great for digestion. It’s almost like we’re doing something *good for our bodies* while indulging!
Cinnamon: Known to help regulate blood sugar levels, it’s a real superhero spice.
However, we do have to consider the sugar and oil content. Moderation is key here! Enjoying a slice as part of a balanced diet is the way to go.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
*Servings:* About 10 slices
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until it’s all blended smoothly.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Don’t over-mix! Add the chocolate chips and fold them into the batter.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Sweet Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra bit of crunch! Or, if you’re a fan of spices, you can amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger into the mix.
This bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. I love to toast a slice and spread a bit of cream cheese on top—heavenly!
I truly hope you give this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread a try! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate fall and share love through baking. Once you whip this up, I guarantee you’ll be the star of any gathering. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out; I’d love to hear about your baking adventures! Enjoy!
