Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze – Best Fall Recipe

When the leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, nothing satisfies quite like a slice of Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze. This rich, moist loaf features deep autumn spices, a crunchy pumpkin spice streusel topping, and a sticky-sweet maple glaze that seeps into every crack for irresistible flavor. Whether you’re serving it warm at a brunch table or saving a slice for late-night indulgence, this pumpkin bread recipe is the perfect way to celebrate fall. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make — no mixer required!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pumpkin Bread

This isn’t just any pumpkin bread — it’s bakery-worthy and foolproof. The combination of pure pumpkin puree, warm spices, and oil creates a moist and tender crumb that stays fresh for days. The streusel topping adds texture and a touch of indulgence, while the real maple syrup glaze offers a sophisticated finish. Best of all? You only need simple pantry staples and one bowl to make it all come together.

• Moist and fluffy texture without being soggy
• Streusel topping adds sweet crunch
• Maple glaze enhances flavor and presentation
• No mixer required – just a whisk and bowl
• Freezer-friendly and keeps well for up to 10 days

What You’ll Need to Make Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze

Let’s break down the key players that bring this decadent loaf to life. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the flavor, structure, and texture.

• Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show. Adds moisture, color, and subtle sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps with browning.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and enhances moisture with its molasses content.
• Vegetable Oil: The secret to keeping the loaf ultra-moist for days.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and give structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds aromatic depth to balance the spices.
• Milk: Thins the batter slightly for better rise and texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and softness.
• Baking Soda: Reacts with the acidity of the pumpkin to create lift.
• Cinnamon: Warm and earthy — a classic fall spice.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and more for layered spice.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.

Streusel Topping Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Binds the crumble and adds richness.
• Flour: Provides structure for the crunchy topping.
• Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: Sweeten and caramelize during baking.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Echoes the warm spices in the bread.

Maple Glaze Ingredients

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a silky glaze base.
• Real Maple Syrup: Adds that distinctive maple flavor and drips perfectly over the streusel.

Easy Substitutions and Ingredient Swaps

Whether you’re out of something or need a dietary-friendly version, here are some smart alternatives:

• Pumpkin Puree: Swap with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree.
• Vegetable Oil: Use melted coconut oil or canola oil for a similar result.
• Eggs: Replace with flax eggs or ¼ cup applesauce per egg for a vegan twist.
• Milk: Any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat works perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make this gluten-free.

These substitutions will still yield a moist pumpkin loaf, perfect for those with allergies or preferences.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze

Follow these simple, no-mixer steps to create the best pumpkin bread you’ve ever had:

1. Prepare the Streusel: Mix melted butter, flour, sugars, and pumpkin spice. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the batter.
2. Preheat & Prep Pan: Set your oven to 325°F. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the sides for easy removal.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Once smooth, whisk in the eggs and vanilla.
5. Bring It Together: Add half the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir. Add the milk, mix, then stir in the remaining dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour and Top: Pour the batter into your loaf pan. Break up the streusel into uniform crumbles and completely cover the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 1 hour and 15-20 minutes at 325°F. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
8. Glaze While Warm: Mix powdered sugar with maple syrup. While the loaf is still warm, drizzle the glaze generously over the top so it seeps into the streusel.
9. Cool and Slice: Let it cool for at least 20 minutes before lifting out and slicing.

Pro Tips for Baking the Perfect Pumpkin Loaf

• Use Pure Pumpkin: Avoid pumpkin pie filling. Look for a can labeled “pure pumpkin” (Libby’s is highly recommended).
• Chill Streusel: Don’t skip the chill time — it ensures the topping stays crisp and doesn’t melt into the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined to avoid dense bread.
• Right Pan Matters: Use a light-colored metal loaf pan for even baking. Dark pans can overbake the edges.
• Let It Set: Cooling the bread helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

Delicious Pairings and Custom Variations

Want to make your Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze even more special? Try these pairing ideas and recipe twists:

• Serve With:
  • A warm chai latte or pumpkin spice coffee
  • Vanilla bean ice cream for dessert
  • Greek yogurt and honey for breakfast
• Add-Ins:
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
  • Mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist
  • Dried cranberries for a tart contrast
• Make It Vegan:
  • Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, and coconut oil
• Make It Gluten-Free:
  • Swap flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend
• Spicy Kick:
  • Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper to the batter for a warming backnote

Autumn Baking at Its Best

Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze isn’t just a dessert — it’s a celebration of fall in every slice. The blend of spices, velvety pumpkin texture, and sticky maple topping makes this the ultimate cozy-season treat. Whether you’re hosting brunch, gifting a loaf, or treating yourself, this pumpkin bread delivers rich flavor and beautiful presentation with minimal effort.

And the best part? It only gets better with time. Store it in the fridge and reheat slices for a warm, melt-in-your-mouth experience that tastes just like it came out of the oven.

Conclusion: A Seasonal Favorite You’ll Bake Again and Again

Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or bringing a treat to a fall gathering, this Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Its incredibly moist crumb, crunchy streusel, and rich maple glaze check every box for the perfect seasonal bake. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and stays fresh for days — though it’s unlikely to last that long once you take your first bite.

This recipe proves that a classic can still surprise you. So go ahead, bookmark this page and make it part of your fall baking tradition. You’ll be glad you did.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Bread – Moist, Easy & Healthy Recipe: A lighter take on the classic loaf, this version delivers the same comforting pumpkin spice flavor with a healthier twist. Ideal for those seeking a lower-sugar, nutrient-rich alternative to the original Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze.
• Sourdough Discard Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Perfect for sourdough enthusiasts, this recipe uses discard to add tangy depth to traditional pumpkin bread. It retains the moist texture and autumn spices while offering a unique flavor dimension that sets it apart.
• Pumpkin Streusel Bread Recipe: With a buttery streusel topping and classic pumpkin spice base, this recipe offers a rich texture and warm flavor profile similar to the Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze — minus the drizzle but just as indulgent.

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