Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This recipe makes a deliciously spicy yeast-risen pumpkin bread.  You can either use canned pumpkin puree or for an even better flavor you can cook your own pumpkin puree very easily.  The spices give the loaf a warming flavor, without being too overpowering.

This recipe tastes great at any time of year.

Pumpkin bread ingredients

* Ideally, use an instant read thermometer to check the water temperature accurately.  If you don't have one, it's best to play safe and use cooler water.  Having the water too cool will just slow down the yeast's action, but too hot will kill it.  Place a drop of the water on the inside of your wrist.  If it feels neutral or just slightly warm on your skin, it will not harm the yeast. 

Pumpkin bread method (bread machine)

This recipe will work if you use the ingredients in the order suggested by your bread machine manufacturer (add the pumpkin puree along with the water and the spices in with the flour.  Then just set the machine to a basic white loaf setting and press start.

Alternatively, for an even better tasting loaf try ignoring your machine's instructions and use the following method (unsuitable for timer use)

• Put the warm water, pumpkin puree, sugar and yeast into the bread machine pan
• Stir with a wooden or plastic spoon - the yeast should dissolve and begin to froth and foam
• Leave it for ten minutes
• Add the flour, dried milk and spices, butter and finally the salt
• Set your bread machine to basic white bread and press start