Description of this Recipe
This Butter Pumpkin Bread is more than just a fall treat; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. The moist, tender crumb, rich with pumpkin and warm spices, is perfectly complemented by the decadent salted maple brown butter glaze. Each slice offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it an unforgettable experience. This bread is perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this pumpkin bread for several reasons. First, the brown butter in both the bread and the glaze elevates the flavor profile, adding a nutty depth that is simply irresistible. Second, the salted maple glaze is a stroke of genius, providing a sweet and salty contrast that enhances the spiced pumpkin notes. Third, the recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring a perfect loaf every time. Finally, the aroma that fills your kitchen while this bread bakes is pure autumnal bliss, making the entire process a joy. This bread isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again. It is also a crowd-pleaser. Any gathering you choose to bring this bread to will make you the star of the show.
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and browned
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 cup sour cream
For the Glaze:
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter
- 1⁄4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1⁄4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. This helps streamline the process and ensures you don’t miss any crucial steps. Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, then lightly flour it. This prevents the bread from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rack in the center of the oven. This ensures even heat distribution for a perfectly baked loaf. Prepare a standard loaf pan by greasing and flouring it. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2:
In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat for the bread. The key to the incredible flavor of this bread lies in browning the butter. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Watch it carefully to prevent burning. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. This brown butter will add depth and complexity to your bread.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and sugar. Mix well until smooth. Make sure the pumpkin puree is smooth and free of lumps before mixing. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This will form the base of your moist and flavorful pumpkin bread.
Step 4:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisking the dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a consistent rise and flavor throughout the bread. This mixture of spices adds warmth and complexity to the bread, perfectly complementing the pumpkin flavor.
Step 5:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated, leaving no streaks of flour.
Step 6:
Stir in the cooled brown butter, vanilla extract, and sour cream until the batter is smooth and well combined. The brown butter adds a nutty richness, the vanilla enhances the overall flavor, and the sour cream adds moisture and tenderness to the bread. Ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated for a cohesive batter.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the surface of the batter, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the pan. This will help the bread bake evenly.
Step 8:
Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark. If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil to prevent burning. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 9:
Once baked, cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread in the pan for a short period allows it to set slightly, making it easier to remove without breaking. Transferring it to a wire rack allows air to circulate, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
Step 10:
While the bread cools, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until brown bits form, then remove from heat. Again, browning the butter is key to the glaze’s exceptional flavor. Watch it carefully and remove from heat once it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Step 11:
Add maple syrup, sea salt, and powdered sugar to the browned butter, whisking until smooth. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and complements the brown butter beautifully. The sea salt provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. Whisk vigorously until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 12:
Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the glaze, adding a touch of warmth and complexity.
Step 13:
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the salted maple brown butter glaze on top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving. Ensure the bread is completely cooled before glazing, as the glaze will melt if the bread is still warm. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the top of the bread, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let the glaze set for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
COOKING Rating:
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
- Taste: Exquisite
- Visual Appeal: Gorgeous
Serving Suggestions:
This Butter Pumpkin Bread with Salted Maple Brown Butter Glaze is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit for a delightful start to your day.
- Dessert: Enjoy a slice as an after-dinner treat, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee.
- Snack: This bread makes a perfect midday snack, satisfying your sweet cravings with its rich flavors and moist texture.
- Gifting: Wrap a loaf in decorative paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Holiday Gatherings: This bread is a showstopper at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall-themed celebration.
Tips:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product. Opt for pure pumpkin puree, real maple syrup, and high-quality butter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough bread. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Brown the Butter Carefully: Browning the butter adds a depth of flavor that is essential to this recipe. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Ensure the bread is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Store Properly: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cook Time:
- 60-70 minutes
Total Time:
- 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice):
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
This Butter Pumpkin Bread with Salted Maple Brown Butter Glaze is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention to detail, can create something truly extraordinary. The rich, moist bread, infused with warm spices and the nutty depth of brown butter, is elevated to new heights by the sweet and salty glaze. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy on a cozy afternoon, this bread is sure to become a beloved favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a slice of autumnal perfection.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
A: No, it is not recommended to use pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of the bread. Stick with pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
Q2: Can I freeze this pumpkin bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pumpkin bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to thaw completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. It is best to freeze the bread before adding the glaze. You can prepare the glaze fresh when you are ready to serve the thawed bread.
Q3: What can I substitute for sour cream?
A: If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or full-fat buttermilk. These substitutes will provide a similar tang and moisture to the bread.
Q4: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. Consider adding 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Q5: How do I prevent the top of the bread from browning too quickly?
A: If you notice the top of the bread browning too quickly during baking, you can tent it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help to slow down the browning process and prevent the top from burning while the inside continues to bake.
