When fall arrives and pumpkin spice fills the air, we all crave that perfect slice of warm pumpkin bread. But what if we told you that you could create the most deliciously moist and flavorful pumpkin bread using just two simple ingredients? This game-changing recipe will revolutionize your baking routine and become your go-to comfort treat.
We’ve discovered the secret to achieving bakery-quality pumpkin bread without the complicated ingredient list or lengthy prep time. This incredibly easy recipe delivers all the cozy autumn flavors you love – rich pumpkin taste, tender crumb, and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner baker or simply short on time, this foolproof method guarantees success every single time.
The best part? You probably already have these ingredients in your pantry right now. Get ready to impress your family and friends with what might just become the easiest and most satisfying pumpkin bread you’ll ever make.
Ingredients
We need just two pantry staples to create this incredibly moist pumpkin bread. Our streamlined ingredient list proves that exceptional baking doesn’t require complicated recipes or specialty items.
For the 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Bread:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
Optional Enhancements:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Yellow cake mix provides the structure and sweetness our bread needs while pumpkin puree delivers moisture and that signature fall flavor we crave. We recommend using 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling to avoid unwanted spices that might clash with our desired taste profile.
Our optional enhancements allow customization without compromising the basic two ingredient foundation. Warm spices amplify the pumpkin’s natural earthiness while mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts add texture and richness. These additions transform our simple base into a more complex treat that rivals traditional pumpkin bread recipes requiring twice as many ingredients.
Equipment Needed
Our simple two ingredient pumpkin bread requires only basic kitchen equipment that we likely already have in our cabinets. We need one large mixing bowl to combine our spice cake mix and pumpkin puree effectively. The bowl should be spacious enough to accommodate thorough mixing without spillage.
A spoon or spatula serves as our primary mixing tool for blending the ingredients. We recommend using a sturdy wooden spoon or rubber spatula that can handle the thick batter consistency without breaking.
The loaf pan forms the foundation of our baking process. We can use either an 8×4-inch or 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan for optimal results. Both sizes work perfectly with our recipe quantities and produce beautifully shaped loaves.
Parchment paper or baking spray prevents our pumpkin bread from sticking to the pan. Parchment paper creates an easy release mechanism and simplifies cleanup. Alternatively baking spray provides quick coverage and ensures smooth removal from the pan.
These four essential items complete our equipment list. We appreciate how this minimal setup makes our recipe accessible to bakers of all experience levels. The straightforward equipment requirements align perfectly with our simple ingredient list to create an effortless baking experience.
Instructions
With our simple ingredient lineup ready, we can now transform these pantry staples into delicious pumpkin bread through a straightforward three-step process. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Prep the Batter
We begin by combining our two key ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Pour the entire 15-ounce can of pure pumpkin puree into the bowl, followed by the complete 15.25-ounce box of spice cake mix. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, we mix these ingredients until they form a cohesive batter. The mixture will appear thick and dense, which is exactly what we want for our bread’s structure. Avoid overmixing at this stage, as we simply need the ingredients to come together without developing tough textures.
While our batter rests, we prepare our 8×4-inch or 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. Alternatively, we can spray the pan thoroughly with baking spray to ensure easy release after baking. This preparation step prevents our finished bread from sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Bake the Bread
We preheat our oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while transferring the thick batter into our prepared loaf pan. Using our spatula, we spread the mixture evenly across the pan, ensuring no air pockets remain. The batter should fill approximately two-thirds of the pan, leaving room for the bread to rise during baking.
We place the pan on the center rack of our preheated oven and bake for 40-55 minutes. The exact baking time depends on our exact oven and desired texture preferences. Duncan Hines spice cake mix typically yields the most consistent results due to its 15.25-ounce size and reliable ingredient blend.
Check for Doneness
We determine our bread’s readiness using two reliable methods. First, we gently press the center of the bread’s surface; properly baked bread will spring back immediately when touched. Second, we examine the top visually for a set appearance with light golden brown coloring.
Our finished bread should feel firm to the touch while maintaining a moist interior. If we desire extra flavor and texture, we can sprinkle cinnamon sugar or coarse sugar on top during the final 10 minutes of baking for a delightful crust enhancement.
Cooling and Storage
Once we’ve achieved that perfect golden brown loaf our recipe promises, proper cooling and storage techniques will ensure our 2 ingredient pumpkin bread maintains its ideal texture and flavor for days to come.
Cooling Instructions
We always allow our freshly baked pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial step helps the bread set properly and prevents crumbling when we transfer it to our wire rack.
After the initial cooling period, we gently remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. The thick batter we created earlier needs this time to fully set its structure, ensuring clean slices without any crumbling or breaking.
We can test for doneness by gently pressing the center of our bread. When it springs back lightly and the top appears golden brown, we know our loaf has baked perfectly through.
Storage Tips
We store our completely cooled pumpkin bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain that moist texture our recipe delivers. At room temperature, our bread stays fresh for up to 5 days when properly sealed.
For longer storage, we recommend freezing individual slices for maximum convenience. We wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 5 days | Airtight container or plastic wrap |
| Frozen Slices | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe bag or container |
When we’re ready to enjoy our frozen slices, we simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them briefly in the microwave. This storage method ensures we can savor our 2 ingredient creation whenever the craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions
Our 2 ingredient pumpkin bread offers endless versatility for any time of day. We recommend serving slices warm or at room temperature as a quick breakfast option that pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or tea.
Transform It Into a Perfect Snack
We love enjoying this moist bread on its own as an afternoon treat. For an elevated experience, we suggest spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on each slice to complement the rich pumpkin flavor.
Add Sweet Finishing Touches
Drizzling maple icing over individual slices creates an irresistible dessert that rivals bakery quality treats. We also recommend sprinkling cinnamon sugar on top for enhanced warmth and sweetness that brings out the bread’s natural fall flavors.
Create Memorable Beverage Pairings
This versatile bread shines when served alongside hot cocoa during chilly evenings. We find that pairing it with herbal teas like chai or vanilla creates a comforting combination that guests always remember.
Storage for Easy Serving
We keep our finished bread in an airtight container on the counter for up to 5 days to maintain optimal freshness. Individual slices freeze beautifully for up to 3 months, allowing us to enjoy this treat whenever cravings strike. Simply thaw frozen slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Versatile Presentation Options
Baking the same batter in muffin tins creates individual portions perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or lunch box treats. We adjust the baking time accordingly when using different pan sizes to ensure consistent results every time.
Recipe Variations
While our basic two-ingredient pumpkin bread recipe delivers incredible results on its own, we love experimenting with simple additions that transform this humble loaf into something extraordinary. These variations maintain the recipe’s simplicity while allowing you to customize the bread to your taste preferences.
Add-In Options
Nuts and Seeds
Chopped walnuts or pecans fold beautifully into the batter, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the bread. We recommend using about ½ cup of nuts, gently folding them in just before transferring the batter to your loaf pan. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds create another delightful textural contrast and can be mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top before baking.
Chocolate Elements
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips bring richness and indulgence to each bite. We typically add ½ to ¾ cup of chocolate chips, depending on how chocolatey you want your bread. Mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly throughout the loaf, while regular-sized chips create pockets of melted chocolate goodness.
Dried Fruits
Raisins or other dried fruits introduce natural sweetness and chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin’s earthy flavor. Golden raisins work particularly well, as do dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots. Use about ½ cup of your chosen dried fruit for optimal balance.
Flavor Modifications
Spice Enhancements
When using yellow or white cake mix instead of spice cake mix, we recommend adding 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon each of ginger and allspice. These warm spices transform plain cake mix into a fall-flavored masterpiece that rivals traditional pumpkin bread recipes.
Citrus Brightness
Fresh lemon or orange zest adds a bright, aromatic note that cuts through the richness of the pumpkin. We suggest using the zest of one medium lemon or orange, grating it directly into the batter for maximum flavor impact.
Sweet Toppings
Sprinkling cinnamon sugar or coarse sugar on top of the batter before baking creates a delightfully crunchy crust. Mix 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the perfect sweet topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Glazes and Icings
After baking and cooling, a simple maple glaze or cream cheese icing drizzle elevates our pumpkin bread from everyday treat to special occasion dessert. These finishing touches add visual appeal and extra sweetness without complicating the original recipe’s simplicity.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even with just two ingredients, we sometimes encounter challenges when making our pumpkin bread. These common issues have simple answers that ensure perfect results every time.
When your bread turns out too dry or crumbly, the batter consistency is the key factor. We expect a thick mixture, but it should never appear dry or crumbly. Add pumpkin puree one tablespoon at a time until you achieve a proper batter-like consistency. This gradual approach prevents adding too much liquid at once.
Dense or gummy texture indicates overmixing has occurred during preparation. We recommend mixing only until the cake mix and pumpkin puree are just incorporated. Stop stirring as soon as no dry cake mix remains visible in the bowl.
Undercooked bread results from oven temperature variations between different appliances. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. Clean removal or just a few moist crumbs indicates proper baking. Extend baking time in 5-minute intervals if needed.
Bread sticking to the pan frustrates many bakers, but prevention is straightforward. Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or thoroughly grease every surface before adding batter. Parchment paper provides the most reliable release.
Bland flavor can disappoint when expectations run high for fall spices. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking or add a simple glaze after cooling. These optional enhancements boost flavor without compromising the recipe’s simplicity.
| Issue | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Dry/crumbly texture | Add pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon at a time | Check batter consistency before baking |
| Dense/gummy bread | Mix only until just combined | Stop mixing when no dry mix remains |
| Undercooked center | Extend baking time by 5-minute intervals | Use toothpick test for doneness |
| Sticking to pan | Line with parchment or grease thoroughly | Always prep pan before mixing batter |
| Bland flavor | Add cinnamon sugar or glaze | Consider optional spices during mixing |
Pan size adjustments require timing modifications for optimal results. Smaller pans need longer baking times, while larger pans cook faster. Monitor your bread closely during the final 10 minutes of baking.
Storage issues arise when bread is stored improperly after baking. Keep cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months when longer storage is needed.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that busy schedules often call for advance preparation options. Our 2 ingredient pumpkin bread adapts beautifully to make ahead strategies that fit seamlessly into meal planning routines.
Baking Three Days in Advance
Complete the entire baking process as directed in our recipe. Allow the finished bread to cool completely on a wire rack before moving to storage preparation. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Store the wrapped bread at room temperature for optimal texture retention.
Freezing for Extended Storage
Long term storage becomes effortless with proper freezing techniques. Bake and cool our pumpkin bread following standard instructions. Wrap the completely cooled loaf first in plastic wrap then add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. Place the double wrapped bread inside a freezer safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | 68-72°F |
| Refrigerated | Up to 1 week | 35-40°F |
| Frozen | Up to 2 months | 0°F |
Frozen bread maintains quality for up to two months when stored properly. Thaw the loaf at room temperature several hours before serving to restore the original texture.
Refrigeration Options
Short term storage benefits from refrigeration when keeping the bread beyond three days. Wrap the cooled bread using the same plastic wrap or aluminum foil method described above. Refrigerated storage extends freshness up to one week while maintaining the moist crumb texture that makes this recipe special.
Reheating Techniques
Refreshing stored bread brings back that fresh baked appeal. Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to restore softness. Alternatively reheat portions in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes to recreate the original texture throughout the slice.
Our make ahead approach transforms this simple recipe into a convenient solution for entertaining guests or preparing weekly treats. The flexibility of storage options ensures fresh tasting pumpkin bread whenever cravings strike.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how simple it can be to create delicious homemade pumpkin bread without the complexity of traditional recipes. This two-ingredient method proves that you don’t need an extensive pantry or advanced baking skills to enjoy fresh-baked treats.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and foolproof nature. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick breakfast option or someone new to baking who wants guaranteed success this pumpkin bread delivers every time.
With endless customization possibilities and make-ahead convenience this recipe will quickly become your go-to fall favorite. We’re confident that once you try this effortless approach you’ll never want to go back to complicated pumpkin bread recipes again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the only two ingredients needed for this pumpkin bread?
You only need a box of yellow cake mix and one can of pumpkin puree (15 oz). Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid unwanted spices. These simple ingredients create a moist, flavorful bread that captures the essence of fall.
How long does it take to bake this 2-ingredient pumpkin bread?
Bake the pumpkin bread at 350°F for 40-55 minutes. The bread is done when the center springs back lightly when pressed and the top is light golden brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and pan size.
Can I add extra ingredients to customize the bread?
Yes! You can add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits without compromising the recipe’s simplicity. These optional enhancements allow you to create a more complex flavor profile while maintaining the easy preparation method.
How should I store the pumpkin bread to keep it fresh?
Store cooled pumpkin bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Always let the bread cool completely before storing.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pumpkin bread can be baked up to 3 days in advance and stored at room temperature, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to lock in moisture and reheat gently if desired.
What kitchen equipment do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need minimal equipment: a large mixing bowl, spoon or spatula for mixing, an 8×4 inch or 8.5×4.5 inch loaf pan, and parchment paper or baking spray. This simple setup makes the recipe accessible to bakers of all experience levels.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! You can use the same batter to make muffins by dividing it among muffin cups. Adjust the baking time to approximately 18-22 minutes at 350°F, checking for doneness with a toothpick. This creates convenient grab-and-go portions.
What are some serving suggestions for this pumpkin bread?
Serve slices with butter or cream cheese for breakfast, drizzle with maple icing for dessert, or enjoy plain as an afternoon snack. It pairs wonderfully with hot cocoa, coffee, or herbal teas for a cozy fall experience.
