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Smoky Pumpkin Bread with Chipotle

This pumpkin bread combines moist, tender crumb with a subtle smoky flavor from roasted chipotle powder. It’s baked until golden and lightly domed, with a dense yet soft texture perfect for fall mornings or cozy afternoons. The addition of warm spices and smoky heat creates a distinctive, flavorful loaf.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon roasted chipotle powder adds smoky depth

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Loaf pan
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and slightly glossy, which takes about 1-2 minutes and releases a sweet aroma.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, until the mixture is creamy and slightly pale.
  4. Gently fold in the pumpkin puree with a spatula until fully incorporated, creating a thick, orange-hued batter.
  5. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and roasted chipotle powder to evenly distribute the spices.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently to combine without overmixing. The batter should be thick and cohesive.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the loaf is golden brown.
  9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which allows the texture to set.
  10. Slice the bread once cooled and enjoy its tender crumb with a smoky kick on every bite.

Notes

For a spicier smoky flavor, increase the chipotle powder slightly. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.