Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Fall in Love with this Cozy Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Autumn whispers its secrets through a delectable chocolate pumpkin bread that promises warmth and comfort.

Crisp leaves dance outside while spices weave magic inside your kitchen.

Moist crumbs carry hints of rich cocoa and earthy pumpkin, creating a sensational treat.

Seasonal baking becomes an art form with this irresistible recipe that connects memories and flavors.

Comfort emerges in each slice, inviting you to savor every delightful moment.

Baking aromas will drift through your home, drawing everyone closer with anticipation.

Whip up this simple yet extraordinary bread and watch smiles bloom around your table.

Fall Loaf Ingredients Checklist

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A fundamental base that provides structure and texture to the sweet fall loaf.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help the loaf rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the loaf.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of spices that adds classic fall flavor and aroma.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Canned Pumpkin: Adds moisture, rich color, and authentic autumn taste to the loaf.
  • Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Provide sweetness and help create a tender crumb.
  • Applesauce, Oil: Contribute to the moistness and softness of the loaf.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients together and provide structure.
  • Vanilla: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Mix-In Ingredient:
  • Chocolate Chips: Add delightful bursts of sweetness and create interesting texture throughout the loaf.

Step-By-Step: Sweet Fall Loaf

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F.

Grab two 8×4 inch loaf pans and give them a quick spray with cooking oil or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Foundations

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Create Wet Magic

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Canned pumpkin puree
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Applesauce or vegetable oil
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture looks smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula, mixing just until everything is combined.

Don’t overmix – a few lumps are totally okay!

Step 5: Chocolate Chip Celebration

Carefully fold in most of the chocolate chips, saving a handful for topping.

This ensures delicious chocolate in every bite.

Step 6: Pan and Decorate

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans.

Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips across the top of each loaf for a beautiful finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with maybe a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the loaves rest in the pans for 10 minutes.

Then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and serve with a warm mug of coffee or tea.

Tips for Tender Fall Loaf Slices

  • Choose fresh, pure pumpkin puree and high-quality chocolate chips for the most delicious, rich flavor.
  • Stir the batter just until ingredients combine to keep the loaf tender and prevent tough, dense texture.
  • Test the loaf with a toothpick near the center; it should come out clean or with minimal moist crumbs.
  • Wrap cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 4 days.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole loaves in freezer-safe wrap to enjoy this seasonal treat for up to 3 months.

Fresh Takes for Sweet Fall Loaf

  • Gluten-Free Fall Loaf: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend flour to create a celiac-friendly version of the sweet loaf.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of regular oil, and swap chocolate chips with dairy-free dark chocolate chunks.
  • Nutty Autumn Spin: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and rich, earthy flavor profile.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of brown and granulated sugars, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining delicious taste.

Serving Sweet Fall Loaf at Its Best

  • Cozy Autumn Breakfast Companion: Slice the warm loaf and pair with a steaming mug of coffee or chai tea for a delightful morning treat.
  • Dessert Upgrade: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent after-dinner dessert.
  • Gift-Worthy Presentation: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a rustic twine for a charming homemade gift to friends and neighbors.
  • Nutty Crunch Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking to add extra texture and a delicious nutty flavor to the loaf.

How to Store Fall Loaf Slices

  • Store the loaf in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, keeping it fresh and moist.
  • Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag, where it can stay good for 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Cut the loaf into individual slices before freezing, allowing you to thaw only what you need for quick snacking or breakfast.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes to restore that freshly-baked taste and soft texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to roast, puree, and drain excess moisture from fresh pumpkin to match the consistency of canned pumpkin.

  • Is it okay to substitute the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use white chocolate, butterscotch, or caramel chips for a different flavor profile.

  • What if I don't have pumpkin pie spice?

Create your own by mixing ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal proportions.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Sweet Fall Loaf Recipe: Why It’s a Must-Bake

  • Whip Up Fall Comfort: This sweet loaf captures the essence of autumn with its warm pumpkin flavor and rich chocolate chips, making it the perfect treat for cozy moments.
  • Foolproof Baking Experience: Even novice bakers can master this recipe with simple mixing steps and minimal kitchen skills required, ensuring delicious results every time.
  • Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with familiar flavors that appeal to all ages, this loaf serves as a delightful dessert or afternoon snack that brings everyone together.
  • Versatile Seasonal Delight: Perfect for potlucks, school gatherings, or unexpected guests, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a memorable homemade goodie that celebrates fall's warmth.
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Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe


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4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent chocolate pumpkin bread marries seasonal warmth with rich cocoa notes, creating a delightful autumn treat. Moist crumb and deep flavors invite bakers to savor each comforting slice with pure culinary joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups canned pumpkin
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup applesauce or oil
  • 2 cups chocolate chips

Dry Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F and grease two 8×4 inch loaf pans with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice until thoroughly combined.
  3. Create a separate large bowl and whisk canned pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and uniform in texture.
  4. Gently pour dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Carefully fold chocolate chips into the batter, setting aside a small portion for garnishing the top of the loaves.
  6. Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared loaf pans, using a spatula to smooth the surfaces and ensure equal distribution.
  7. Sprinkle reserved chocolate chips across the top of each loaf, lightly pressing them into the batter.
  8. Place pans in preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, rotating halfway through to ensure even browning.
  9. Test loaves for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should emerge clean with minimal crumbs.
  10. Remove from oven and allow loaves to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack for complete cooling.

Notes

  • Customize spice blend by adjusting pumpkin pie spice ratio for personalized flavor intensity.
  • Swap chocolate chips with nuts, dried fruits, or alternative mix-ins for dietary preferences or allergy considerations.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Check loaf doneness early to prevent over-baking, which can result in dry texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 315
  • Sugar: 23 g
  • Sodium: 286 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 46 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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