Pumpkin Bread with Maple Butter Swirl

There’s something undeniably cozy about Pumpkin Bread with Maple Butter Swirl. This moist, spiced loaf combines the warm, earthy flavors of pumpkin and autumn spices with a luscious swirl of sweet maple butter that melts into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, a comforting afternoon snack, or simply craving a seasonal treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender crumb: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and oil, the bread stays soft and moist for days.
• Perfect balance of spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth without overpowering the natural pumpkin flavor.
• Maple butter swirl: A sweet, buttery swirl runs through the bread, adding a decadent touch that takes it to the next level.
• Easy to make: No fancy techniques—just simple ingredients and a few steps to a delicious loaf.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with coffee or tea.

Shopping List

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup softened butter

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – for wet and dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy.
• Whisk and spatula – for mixing and folding.
• 9×5-inch loaf pan – perfect size for this bread.
• Electric mixer (optional) – helps with creaming butter and sugars.
• Cooling rack – to cool the bread evenly.

Pumpkin Bread with Maple Butter Swirl in Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Prepare Maple Butter Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mix the softened butter and maple syrup together until creamy and well blended.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the pumpkin bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop half of the maple butter mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over that, then add the rest of the maple butter on top. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the maple butter into the batter to create a marbled effect.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for the maple butter swirl.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum.
• Egg Replacement: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) if needed.
• Maple Butter: Use a pure maple syrup and dairy-free spread for a dairy-free swirl.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• The secret to the moist texture is the combination of pumpkin puree and oil, which locks in moisture and keeps the bread soft for days.
• Swirling the maple butter rather than mixing it in completely creates pockets of sweetness and a pretty marbled pattern.
• The warm spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—bring out the best in pumpkin without overpowering it.
• This recipe pairs wonderfully with a spread of Cinnamon Honey Butter Texas Roadhouse Butter for an extra indulgent treat.
• For a fun twist, serve alongside Pumpkin Granola or crumble Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies on top for texture contrast.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

After baking, it’s important to let the Pumpkin Bread with Maple Butter Swirl cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

You can keep the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, slice the loaf first and separate slices with parchment paper for easy thawing.

To rewarm, toast individual slices lightly or microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a warm, comforting bite.

Popular Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the bread from becoming too wet. Use the same amount as canned pumpkin puree.

Is the maple butter swirl necessary?

While the bread is delicious on its own, the maple butter swirl adds a rich, sweet contrast that elevates the flavor and texture. It creates those delightful pockets of buttery sweetness throughout the bread.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even chocolate chips work beautifully in this bread. Fold about 1/2 cup into the batter right before pouring it into the pan to add a crunch or extra sweetness.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. If it’s wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

More from the Kitchen

• Pumpkin Granola – A crunchy, spiced granola perfect for fall mornings.
• Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies – Delightfully soft cookies with a touch of autumn spice.
• Cinnamon Honey Butter Texas Roadhouse Butter – A sweet, spiced butter spread that pairs well with breads and muffins.

Let’s Eat

Slice into your beautiful Pumpkin Bread with Maple Butter Swirl and enjoy the aroma of fall spices filling your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast with a hot cup of coffee, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, each bite offers a perfect harmony of pumpkin, spice, and sweet maple butter. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day—simple, comforting, and irresistibly delicious.

Happy baking and happy eating!

Share on Pinterest