Starbucks Pumpkin Bread Copycat Recipe

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Pumpkin bread and fall go hand in hand, but you don’t need to visit a coffee shop every time a craving hits. This Starbucks Pumpkin Bread copycat recipe captures all the nostalgia and warmth of the original, right in your kitchen, for a fraction of the cost.

Why Make This Pumpkin Bread at Home?

If you’re like me, the aroma of spiced pumpkin bread feels like autumn in a bite—comforting, familiar, and joyfully seasonal. Starbucks has perfected their version, but making this favorite at home has its perks:

• Fresher slices whenever you want
• Complete control over ingredients and sweetness
• The pleasure of baking with real pumpkin and spices
• Customizable toppings and mix-ins

Let’s walk through all you need to recreate this fan favorite, from the ingredient list to baking tips, storage solutions, and a few flavorful twists.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items come straight from the pantry. Here’s the lineup for a tender, flavorful pumpkin loaf with the signature Starbucks touch.

Note: Always choose pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugar and spices.

Preparation and Baking Instructions

You don’t need a mixer for this loaf. Start with two bowls and a whisk or spatula.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Preheat and Prepare
  Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

• Mix Dry Ingredients
  In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon extra ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• Blend Wet Ingredients
  In a large bowl, combine:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  Whisk until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.

• Combine Mixtures
  Add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can toughen the bread, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.

• Pour and Top
  Transfer the batter to your prepared pan. Sprinkle a generous handful of pepitas over the top for signature crunch and color.

• Bake
  Bake for 50-60 minutes. The loaf should appear set and a toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Cool
  Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Wait until completely cooled before slicing so the loaf stays moist and intact.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Elevate your loaf with these simple pro moves:

• Mix Gently by Hand: Stirring by hand preserves tenderness.
• Parchment Sling: Lining your pan makes for easy lift-out and prettier slices.
• Test Early: Start checking for doneness at 50 minutes. Ovens vary, and overbaking dries out the crumb.
• Flavor Development: Waiting until your bread cools to slice allows the spices and pumpkin to deepen.
• For Extra Moisture: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and let it sit overnight. The flavor and texture improve!
• Try Mix-Ins: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even a handful of dried cranberries for interest.

Customizing Your Pumpkin Bread

Your loaf, your rules. Pump up the goodness with these simple tweaks:

• Nuts: Add walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Chocolate: Fold in dark or white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple vanilla or maple glaze on top for a bakery touch.
• Spices: Adjust the levels of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to match your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin bread holds its own, but a little creativity makes each slice special.

• Morning Treat: Pair a warm slice with hot coffee or your favorite latte.
• Afternoon Snack: Enjoy with apple butter or a pat of salted butter.
• Dessert: Toast a thick slice, top with whipped cream and candied pecans.
• French Toast: Yes, leftover pumpkin bread makes fantastic French toast.

Storing and Freezing

This bread stays soft and flavorful for days, so you can bake ahead or enjoy leftovers.

Storage

• At Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container. Keeps for up to five days.
• In the Refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to one week.
• Freezing: Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in parchment and plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer-safe bag. Keeps for up to three months.
• To Thaw: Let sit at room temperature, still wrapped, until soft.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Why is my pumpkin bread dense?
Overmixing can cause a heavy loaf. Mix just until combined.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Absolutely, but drain any excess liquid before adding to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins?
Yes. For mini loaves, adjust baking time to 25-35 minutes. Muffins typically take 18-22 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Enjoy Homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Bread Any Time

Making Starbucks Pumpkin Bread from scratch unlocks the best of fall with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you savor a morning slice, share with friends, or freeze a loaf for later, this recipe brings bakery-level results home. So pull out a loaf pan, open that can of pumpkin, and transform your kitchen into a cozy autumn retreat—all year round.