Fall is the perfect time for cozy, comforting baked goods, and Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is one of those treats that instantly brings warmth to your kitchen. With tender pumpkin-infused bread studded with sweet chocolate chips, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. The combination of pumpkin spice and chocolate creates a flavor that is both comforting and indulgent, making it a seasonal favorite for families and friends alike.
What makes this pumpkin bread so special is its versatility. You can serve it warm straight from the oven, toast a slice for breakfast, or wrap it up as a homemade gift for neighbors and loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, straightforward, and packed with flavor. The soft, moist texture, combined with pockets of melty chocolate, guarantees a loaf that disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
- Moist and Tender – Pumpkin purée keeps the bread soft and flavorful.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – Sweet chocolate chips complement the warm pumpkin spice.
- Kid- and Adult-Friendly – A treat that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Great for Gifting or Sharing – Wrap slices in parchment for a thoughtful homemade gift.
This bread isn’t just delicious—it embodies the cozy feeling of fall and the joy of baking at home.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla – Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Pumpkin – Mix in pumpkin purée until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips – Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour into Pan and Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve – Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
What to Serve With Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
- Hot Coffee or Tea – Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Whipped Cream or Cream Cheese Spread – Adds richness and makes it even more indulgent.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte – Enhance the fall flavors with a seasonal coffee drink.
- Fruit Compote or Jam – Pair with tart apple or cranberry compote for extra flavor contrast.
This bread also works beautifully for brunch spreads, fall gatherings, or as a sweet addition to a holiday breakfast table.
Tips for Perfecting Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Purée – Ensure your pumpkin isn’t watery to maintain a perfect texture.
- Do Not Overmix – Overmixing can make the bread dense; mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Check Oven Temperature – Oven temperatures vary; start checking for doneness at 55 minutes.
- Add Extra Chocolate Chips on Top – Sprinkle a few on top before baking for a beautiful presentation.
- Store Properly – Keep the bread wrapped tightly at room temperature to maintain moisture.
Storing and Reheating
- Room Temperature – Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator – Keeps up to a week; allow the bread to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing – Slice and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- Reheating – Microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds for a warm, freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! Dark, milk, or white chocolate chips all work beautifully. You can even mix types for extra variety.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and complement the chocolate and pumpkin flavors.
Can this be made into muffins?
Yes! Use a muffin tin and bake for 20–25 minutes at the same temperature, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is the ultimate fall treat, combining moist pumpkin bread with sweet chocolate chips and warm spices. It’s simple to make, versatile, and perfect for cozy breakfasts, snacks, or dessert. With its comforting flavor and inviting aroma, this bread will quickly become a favorite for your family and friends.
Baking a loaf—or a batch of muffins—of Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is a wonderful way to celebrate the season, bring warmth into your kitchen, and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade fall baking.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.