High Altitude Pumpkin Bread Recipe

As you cozy up to the idea of baking delicious seasonal treats, have you considered trying a high altitude pumpkin bread recipe?

Like most pumpkin breads, this one boasts the comforting flavors of fall – from cinnamon and nutmeg to the star of the show, pumpkin.

However, baking at high altitudes can sometimes be a challenge, and this recipe is specifically designed to ensure you achieve the perfect texture and moistness every time.

Living in higher altitudes can make baking a bit more of a science, but don’t worry, this recipe has got you covered.

It takes into account the adjustments needed for higher altitude baking, such as adding extra liquid, decreasing the sugar, and extending baking time.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a warm, scrumptious slice of high altitude pumpkin bread that will make you fall in love with the season all over again.

How to Make High Altitude Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients List

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (you can use a combination of wheat and white flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt or 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Step-by-step process

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the center.

Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans or a combination of standard-sized and mini loaf pans.

Optionally, line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

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

Set the flour mixture aside.

Step 3

In a separate large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.

Mix until well blended.

Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing between each addition.

Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4

Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, folding gently just until all dry ingredients are incorporated.

Be careful not to overmix.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans, filling them about two-thirds full.

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaves comes out clean.

Keep an eye on the baking time, checking for doneness at the early end of the time range, especially if using mini loaf pans.

Step 5

Remove the loaves of pumpkin bread from the oven and let them cool in the pans on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

Gently remove the bread from the pans and let them cool completely on the wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked high-altitude pumpkin bread, and add this new favorite recipe to your baking collection!

Side Dishes for High Altitude Pumpkin Bread

Warm Spiced Apple Cider

A perfect drink to serve alongside your pumpkin bread is warm spiced apple cider.

Its deep, warm flavors will complement the spices in the bread, creating a cozy atmosphere.

You can easily prepare it with fresh apple juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

Just simmer everything together, strain, and enjoy!

Whipped Cinnamon Butter

If you’re looking to enhance your pumpkin bread’s flavor, try pairing it with whipped cinnamon butter.

The rich, creamy texture and the sweet, spicy taste of cinnamon will perfectly complement your bread.

Simply whip softened butter with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency.

Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re craving something sweet and indulgent as a side dish, consider spreading some cream cheese frosting on your pumpkin bread.

The creamy, silky smooth frosting balances the spices in the bread and brings a luscious sweetness to your meal.

Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well blended.

How to Store High Altitude Pumpkin Bread

Storing high altitude pumpkin bread properly is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Here are some storage methods you can use.

Refrigerating the Pumpkin Bread

If you want your high altitude pumpkin bread to stay fresh for a few days longer, you can refrigerate it.

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap away from strong-smelling foods.

Your pumpkin bread can last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing the Pumpkin Bread

For longer-term storage, you can freeze your high altitude pumpkin bread.

Place it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic freezer bag.

Label the container or bag with the date for future reference.

Your pumpkin bread can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

To defrost the frozen pumpkin bread.

You can also gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to restore its warm and inviting texture.

By following these storage methods, you’ll be able to enjoy your high altitude pumpkin bread for an extended period while preserving its delicious taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the importance of well-proportioned spices:

Balancing the spices can make a significant difference in your pumpkin bread’s final flavor.

Measure the spices carefully and avoid using too many or too few.

Experiment with different proportions to find your perfect balance.

Baking at the wrong temperature:

Baking at too low a temperature can cause the bread to be undercooked and maintain a gummy texture.

On the other hand, baking at too high a temperature can cause it to dry out or burn.

The ideal oven temperature for this recipe is 350°F.