Introduction to Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Why is Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread a Fall Favorite?
As the leaves begin to change and the crisp air sets in, it’s the perfect time to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of brown butter pumpkin bread. This delightful treat emanates the essence of fall, melding the rich, nutty taste of brown butter with the sweet and savory notes of pumpkin. The warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—create an aroma that will instantly remind you of cozy autumn days spent with family.
So, what makes this bread stand out? It's not just the irresistible flavor; it’s the texture. The brown butter adds a richness that makes each bite melt in your mouth! You can easily see why this recipe from Two Peas and Their Pod has become a seasonal staple. Plus, the brown butter maple glaze on top? It's a decadent finishing touch that takes this pumpkin bread to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet weekend at home, baking up a loaf of this brown butter pumpkin bread will surely impress your guests—or elevate your personal coffee break! Why not gather your ingredients and elevate your autumn experience with this perfect blend of flavors?
Essential Ingredients for the Bread
To craft the perfect brown butter pumpkin bread, you'll need the following essential ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, cut into tablespoon pieces. This is crucial for achieving that rich, nutty flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cup, which forms the bread’s base.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, to help the bread rise.
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon, to enhance flavor.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon (1 ½ teaspoons), ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon), ground ginger (½ teaspoon), and ground cloves (¼ teaspoon) bring that warm, cozy fall feeling.
- Pumpkin puree: 1 ½ cups of pure pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling — this gives moisture and flavor.
- Light brown sugar (¾ cup) and granulated sugar (½ cup) for sweetness.
- Large eggs: 2, at room temperature, to bind the ingredients.
- Buttermilk: ¼ cup, also at room temperature, for moisture and tenderness.
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 ½ teaspoons, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
Ingredients for the Rich Glaze
To elevate your brown butter pumpkin bread even more, don’t skip on the glaze! You’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, which will be browned for that signature nutty taste.
- Confectioner’s sugar: ½ cup, for that smooth, sweet coating.
- Pure maple syrup: 3 tablespoons, providing a delightful hint of sweetness and flavor.
- Sea salt: Just a pinch, to balance the sweetness.
These ingredients will not only enhance the flavor but also create an irresistible allure that will have everyone coming back for seconds! For more tips on baking with pumpkin, you might check out Baking Better.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Creating a delicious brown butter pumpkin bread is a perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall and indulge in a cozy baking session. Let’s break it down into easy steps to ensure your baking experience is both enjoyable and successful.
Preheat the oven
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While it warms, grab your 9x5-inch loaf pan and generously grease it with nonstick cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the bread from sticking and help achieve that perfect, golden crust.
Brown the butter
Next, let’s infuse your bread with that rich, nutty flavor by browning the butter. In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep stirring! After about 5 minutes, you’ll notice the butter will foam, smell heavenly, and begin to turn golden brown. Scrape it into a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly while you prepare the dry ingredients.
Combine dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Set this fragrant mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.
Mix the wet ingredients
In that same large bowl with your cooled brown butter, add the following:
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin (not pie filling)
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature!)
- ¼ cup buttermilk (also room temperature)
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Whisk together until everything is well-combined and smooth.
Combine wet and dry mixtures
Gently mix your dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix— a few lumps are perfectly fine. The goal is to keep it light and airy for that fluffy texture.
Pour batter into the pan
Now it’s time to transfer that luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and make sure it’s evenly distributed.
Bake to perfection
Slide the loaf pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Your brown butter pumpkin bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Prepare the glaze
While your bread cools on a rack, it’s the perfect time to whip up the glaze. In a small saucepan, brown another 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, just like before. Once ready, transfer it to a bowl and whisk in ½ cup confectioner’s sugar, 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt.
Glaze the cooled bread
Once your beautiful brown butter pumpkin bread has completely cooled, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drip deliciously down the sides. Allow it to set for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy every moist, flavorful bite of this fall favorite!
Now that you’re an expert in making this delightful dish, why not share it with friends or take it to your next gathering? Happy baking!
Variations of Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Chocolate Chip Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
If you're a fan of sweet surprises in your baked goods, try adding semi-sweet chocolate chips to your brown butter pumpkin bread. Just fold in about a cup of chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. The melted chocolate mingles beautifully with the warm spices, creating a decadent treat that’s perfect for your next cozy gathering.
Nutty Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
For a delightful crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. About half a cup of nuts adds a wonderful texture and nutty flavor. You could even toast the nuts beforehand for an extra layer of warmth. This variation is not only delicious but also adds a lovely contrast to the moistness of the pumpkin bread.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to personalize your brown butter pumpkin bread, making it a true reflection of your tastes. Happy baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Achieving the Perfect Brown Butter
Getting that nutty richness from your brown butter is essential for this recipe. Start by melting the butter over medium heat and stir it frequently. You'll know it's ready when it turns a golden-brown color and gives off a delightful aroma. Just be careful not to let it burn! Here’s a tip: If you’re unsure about the browning process, consider checking out this brown butter guide.
Avoiding Overmixing
When you combine the wet and dry ingredients for your brown butter pumpkin bread, it’s crucial to stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, which isn’t what we want! So, use a spatula to fold the mixture gently, and don't worry if there are a few lumps; they will bake out beautifully. Trust me; your patience will pay off with a tender, moist loaf!
Serving Suggestions for Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Enjoying as a Snack
This brown butter pumpkin bread makes for a delightful snack at any time of the day! Whether you’re having a cozy afternoon at home or need a quick bite on the go, simply slice a piece and enjoy it as is. For a heartier option, spread a layer of cream cheese or almond butter on top. Its moist texture and rich flavors also pair wonderfully with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for those extra cozy vibes.
Pairing Ideas with Drinks
When it comes to beverages, you can elevate your brown butter pumpkin bread experience by pairing it with a variety of drinks. Opt for a warm cup of chai tea to complement the spices, or enjoy a chilled glass of apple cider for a refreshing contrast. Coffee lovers can’t go wrong with a rich cold brew or a classic pumpkin spice latte! These drink options enhance the flavors of the bread and make your snack time even more delightful.
Time Breakdown for Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Preparation Time
Get ready for fall baking with a quick prep! It only takes about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. Just enough time to sip your favorite coffee or tea!
Baking Time
Once you’ve poured your delicious batter into the loaf pan, it’s time for the oven magic! Bake your brown butter pumpkin bread for 55 to 65 minutes, until the top has a lovely golden color and a toothpick comes out clean.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at a total time of about 1 hour 15 minutes. Perfect for a cozy afternoon at home or a weekend treat! Enjoy the rich aromas wafting through your kitchen as you wait.
For more inspiration, consider checking out some fall baking tips on Food Network for that extra boost of kitchen confidence!
Nutritional Facts for Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Calories per slice
Each slice of brown butter pumpkin bread packs approximately 305 calories, making it a delicious yet indulgent treat perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks. Enjoying a slice with your favorite beverage can transform your day into a warm fall experience.
Sugar content
With about 27 grams of sugar per slice, this bread brings a delightful sweetness that complements its spiced pumpkin flavor. While it’s a sumptuous addition to your table, moderation is key—consider pairing it with unsweetened yogurt for a balanced bite.
Dietary considerations
This recipe is not only tasty but can also be adapted to fit various dietary needs. For a healthier twist, you could substitute whole wheat flour or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that it contains butter and eggs, so it's not vegan. For gluten-free options, specific flour blends can be used instead. Always check for allergies to any ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy this seasonal favorite!
For additional nutrition tips, consider checking out the USDA's FoodData Central for comprehensive ingredient insights.
FAQs about Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using canned pumpkin is a convenient option and works wonderfully in brown butter pumpkin bread. Just ensure you’re using pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sweeteners and spices. Canned pumpkin also saves you time—no chopping or cooking required!
How do I store leftover bread?
To keep your brown butter pumpkin bread fresh and delicious, you can store it in several ways:
- Room Temperature: Wrap it tightly or place it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: It lasts well in the fridge for up to 5 days if sealed properly.
- Freezer: For a longer shelf life, freeze slices or the whole loaf wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Just wait to add any glaze until after it has thawed to maintain its texture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, don't fret! You can easily make a substitute by combining ¼ cup of milk (whole or low-fat) with ½ tablespoon of either white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give your brown butter pumpkin bread the tangy flavor that buttermilk offers!
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll have a delightful baking experience with your brown butter pumpkin bread!
Conclusion on Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
In summary, this brown butter pumpkin bread offers a delightful fusion of flavors that celebrate the essence of fall. Its moist texture, cozy spices, and rich glaze make it perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee. Don't hesitate to give this recipe a try!
Brown Butter Pumpkin Bread
Equipment
- medium saucepan
- large mixing bowl
- medium bowl
- loaf pan
- spatula
Ingredients
For the bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ¼ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the glaze
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces
- ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan generously with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Place the butter in a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat, stirring often, until it foams, smells nutty, and browns. This will take about 5 minutes. Scrape the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and let cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the browned butter, pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't over mix the batter.
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth with a spatula.
- Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, tine will vary depending on your oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pan from the oven and place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
- While the bread is cooling, make the glaze. Place the butter in a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat, stirring often, until it foams, smells nutty, and browns. This will take about 5 minutes. Scrape the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and let cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the browned butter, confectioner’s sugar, maple syrup, and salt until the glaze is smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled bread. Let it set for 10 minutes. Cut into slices and enjoy!
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