Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the warm flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin in a moist, tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread is ideal for fall gatherings or cozy weekends at home. Its unique swirl pattern makes it visually appealing while delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed plain or with a smear of butter, this recipe will quickly become a favorite among family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This bread requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a comforting taste that evokes the essence of autumn.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or even as dessert; it fits perfectly into any meal.
- Great for Sharing: This Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread makes an excellent gift for neighbors or during potlucks.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The pumpkin ensures each slice is soft and flavorful, making it hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Loaf pan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Loaf pan: The right size loaf pan helps your bread bake evenly, ensuring perfect slices every time.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes removing the bread easier once baked.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Vegetable oil
3. Eggs
4. Granulated sugar
5. Brown sugar
Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Salt
Whisk these ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Ground cinnamon
2. Granulated sugar
This filling adds that delicious swirl effect to your bread.
Step 7: Assemble the Bread Mixture
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling on top. Pour in the remaining batter and repeat with the last bit of filling on top.
Step 8: Create Swirls
Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through the batter to create patterns but avoid over-mixing.
Step 9: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread!
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few simple serving suggestions. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these ideas will enhance your experience.
Toasted with Butter
- Toast a slice and spread butter on top for a warm, comforting treat.
Cream Cheese Spread
- Pair your bread with cream cheese for a creamy contrast that complements the spices.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and richness to each bite.
Served with Coffee
- Enjoying this bread alongside coffee creates a perfect morning ritual or afternoon pick-me-up.
Sliced for Breakfast Sandwiches
- Use slices to create a breakfast sandwich with eggs and bacon for a hearty meal.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Perfecting your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread involves a few key techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your pumpkin puree and spices are fresh to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Let it cool before slicing: Cooling allows flavors to develop and prevents crumbling.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the bread. - Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a satisfying addition that brings creaminess. - Oven-Baked Bacon
Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast that enhances the sweet flavors of the bread. - Spiced Chai Tea
A cup of warm chai tea adds aromatic spices that complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully. - Whipped Cream Topping
Top slices with homemade whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. - Nutty Granola
Serve alongside nutty granola for added crunch and texture in every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing. Always allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature before baking.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined to keep it fluffy and moist.
- Skipping the swirl step: Neglecting to swirl the cinnamon mixture properly leads to uneven flavor distribution. Use a knife or skewer to create a nice swirl effect.
- Not checking for doneness: Your bread might look done but still be raw inside. Always use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is ready.
- Storing improperly: Not storing your bread correctly can lead to it drying out. Ensure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss.
Freezing Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to three months.
- Containers: Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
Reheating Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a slice of bread. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread more flavorful?
You can enhance flavors by adding extra spices like nutmeg or ginger. Also, consider using fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a richer taste.
Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly.
What should I do if my bread is too dry?
If your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread turns out dry, you may have overbaked it. Next time, check doneness earlier and consider adding an extra egg or some yogurt to keep it moist.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, it’s sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its warm flavors and inviting aroma!

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a delightful fall treat that perfectly combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon in a moist, tender loaf. This bread is not only visually appealing with its beautiful swirl but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Whether served plain or enhanced with butter, cream cheese, or maple syrup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, while its comforting taste evokes the essence of autumn. Perfect for cozy weekends at home or festive gatherings, this bread will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- For the cinnamon swirl filling, combine ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling on top. Add the remaining batter and repeat with the rest of the filling.
- Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter.
- Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh spices for more flavor impact. You can customize this bread by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Make sure not to overmix; some lumps are okay.

