Some know it as our country’s iconic image of thanksgiving. Others know it as Cinderella’s ride home. Whatever the case for you, the pumpkin has been used in delicious cuisine for many years. Pumpkins, a large member of the squash family, are believed to have originated in North America. The main nutrient found in the pumpkin is beta carotene, which aids in the generation of vitamin A in the body. Many culinary treasures can be made from this versatile fruit, including soups, muffins, breads, pies, and cakes. The pumpkin’s beautiful orange color is truly a delight in everything that it is used in – the rustic color in this recipe is a fall treasure. Pumpkin bread can be served in many ways…as a breakfast food, an afternoon snack, or as an evening treat for those of you who love desserts. My favorite way to eat it is with a cup of hot coffee in the morning. No matter when you choose to munch on this delicious pumpkin treat, it will impress every time.
First, gather your ingredients. Spices play a key role in the baking process here.
PUMPKIN BREAD
One 15-oz. can pumpkin
1 2/3 cups sugar
¾ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon baking powder
Finely chopped nuts (optional)
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9X5-inch loaf pan or two 8X4-inch loaf pans. Next, mix the pumpkin, oil, eggs, and sugar until well blended. Stir together the remaining ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and whisk until combined. Add the dry ingredients slowly to the pumpkin mixture and beat until blended. Fold in nuts with a spatula at this point if desired. Pour the battered into the prepared baking pan.
Place in the center of the oven and bake for about an hour (smaller pans will take less time). The bread is done when a cake tester inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool the bread a little while in the pan, and then move it to a rack to cool completely.
Health benefits accompanied by a fabulous taste!?! Sign me up! Enjoy savoring the great flavor of this amazing fall bread.
