Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, irresistible treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scent of fall, this Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf is exactly what you need. It’s a tender, moist pumpkin bread crowned with a delightfully crumbly streusel topping that adds just the perfect amount of sugary crunch. Every bite bursts with pumpkin spice goodness and the buttery crumble makes it feel like a little hug in loaf form. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, this Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf will quickly become your go-to recipe to share and savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but crucial for that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each element works harmoniously to bring out the autumnal magic in every bite.

• Flour: The foundation for both the loaf and the crumb topping, providing structure and tenderness.
• Baking soda: Helps the loaf rise and become light and fluffy.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pumpkin bread, complementing the spices.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and depth of flavor in the crumb topping with a subtle molasses note.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the loaf perfectly moist and tender.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
• Pumpkin purée: The star ingredient that brings vibrant color and moist, natural sweetness.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Gives that signature spiced warmth in both the loaf and the crumb topping.
• Cold unsalted butter: Cubed and used in the streusel topping for that irresistible crumbly texture.

How to Make Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for baking your loaf evenly. Spray an 8” x 4” loaf pan with a baking spray like Baker’s Joy to keep your pumpkin bread from sticking while forming a golden crust.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a large or mini food processor, combine the flour, dark brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, kosher salt, and the cold cubed butter. Pulse just until large crumbs form, creating that perfect crumble texture. The cold butter is key here—it melts as the loaf bakes, creating pockets of buttery goodness in the crumb topping.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for the Bread

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This step ensures your leavening is evenly distributed and prevents any clumps from forming, which is essential for a smooth batter and tender crumb.

Step 4: Blend Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin purée, and pumpkin pie spice until everything is fully combined and smooth. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of your loaf, marrying sweet, spicy, and creamy elements perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and whisk gently until smooth with no lumps remaining. Overmixing can toughen the bread, so just blend until it comes together beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the surface. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the streusel topping starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with foil to prevent burning while the inside finishes baking.

Step 7: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow the Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf to cool in the pan for 20 to 30 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serving it warm or at room temperature lets the flavors shine and the crumb topping stay delightfully crisp.

How to Serve Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness without overpowering the loaf. If you’re feeling indulgent, a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spice notes.

Side Dishes

This Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf holds its own but can be wonderfully complemented by a hot cup of chai tea or rich coffee. Pair it with whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra cozy dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch or special occasion, slice the loaf and arrange it on a platter with small bowls of nut butters, maple syrup, and fresh berries. You can also toast slices lightly and spread them with butter to revive that fresh-baked warmth any time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the crumb topping crisp and the bread moist for easy snacking or sharing.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, the loaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the loaf warm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave. For the best texture, a quick toast will refresh the crumb topping’s crunch while warming the spiced pumpkin bread inside.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly and is the easiest option year-round. Just make sure it’s plain pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy this loaf with a gluten-free twist. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still shine.

Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prepare the streusel topping and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days before baking. This makes assembling the Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf even more convenient.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can swap vegetable oil for melted coconut oil or even melted butter for a richer flavor. Just make sure to keep the same measurement to maintain the loaf’s moisture and texture.

How do I know when the pumpkin loaf is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the loaf is done. Avoid opening the oven too early or too often, as this can cause the bread to collapse.

Final Thoughts

This Streusel Topped Pumpkin Loaf is one of those recipes that feels like an instant classic. It’s easy to make, bursting with cozy fall flavors, and has that perfect crumbly topping that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, don’t hesitate—bake this loaf soon and enjoy a little slice of pumpkin spice heaven.

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