Introduction to Pumpkin Bread with Salted Brown Butter Glaze
Why Homemade Pumpkin Bread is a Game Changer for Young Professionals
Picture this: a busy Saturday morning after a long week, and you decide to whip up some homemade pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze. Not only is it an absolute treat, but it also nurtures a sense of achievement that takeout brunch simply can't match. In a world where healthy eating often feels out of reach amidst deadlines and daily hustle, a slice of fresh bread offers comfort alongside valuable nutrition.
Homemade pumpkin bread is not just delicious; it’s also relatively quick to prepare—taking only about two hours from start to finish. The key ingredients like pumpkin purée and spices provide warmth and depth, making it an ideal companion for chilly autumn mornings or as a sweet afternoon snack. If you want to explore more about the nutritional benefits of pumpkin, check out Healthline’s insights on pumpkin.
The salted brown butter glaze elevates the bread from good to exceptional, creating a symphony of flavors that will impress your friends and family. You’ll find that this recipe is perfect for meal prepping, too. Why not whip up a loaf to enjoy throughout the week? Your mornings could be transformed into a cozy routine, one slice at a time. Plus, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Salted Brown Butter Glaze
Essential ingredients for the pumpkin bread
Making pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze is not just about the flavors; it's about using fresh, quality ingredients that create a rich and moist loaf. You'll need the following essentials:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the base (1 ⅔ cups), providing structure.
- Pumpkin purée: Utilize either canned or homemade (1 cup) for that classic pumpkin flavor.
- Sugars: Both granulated (½ cup) and light brown sugar (½ cup) balance sweetness and moisture.
- Eggs: Two large eggs (the binding agent) help with fluffiness.
- Spices: A warm mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice adds depth to the flavor profile.
With these ingredients, you’re laying the groundwork for a delightful fall treat.
Key ingredients for the salted brown butter glaze
To elevate your pumpkin bread, the glaze is where the magic happens! Here’s what you need:
- Unsalted butter: Rich and creamy (2 tablespoons), it's the star of the glaze, providing that luscious consistency.
- Powdered sugar: For sweetness (½ cup), it gives the glaze a smooth texture.
- Milk: A splash (1 tablespoon) helps achieve your desired pourable consistency.
- Flavoring: A touch of vanilla extract rounds off the glaze beautifully.
These ingredients, combined, will create that irresistible finish, making your pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze the perfect treat to share, or simply to enjoy yourself!
Step-by-step Preparation of Pumpkin Bread
Prepare your tools and ingredients
Before diving into the delightful preparation of pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze, it’s essential to set yourself up for success. Grab your essentials: an 8 ½- by 4 ½-inch loaf pan, a wire rack, and a mixing bowl. Gather your ingredients, which include flour, baking powder, spices, eggs, and of course, pumpkin purée. It’s helpful to measure everything out in advance, creating a sort of “mise en place.” This not only speeds up your baking process but also ensures you won't forget anything essential!
Combine the dry ingredients for the bread
In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients. This includes all-purpose flour, malted milk powder, baking powder, kosher salt, and spices like cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. The purpose of this step is to create a harmonious blend of flavors, so take your time to ensure everything is well combined. For a deeper dive into the beauty of spices, you might check out The Flavor Bible!
Whisk the wet ingredients together
In another larger bowl, it’s time to focus on the stars of the show: the wet ingredients. Whisk together the eggs, pumpkin purée, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. This should take about a minute until everything is thoroughly combined, and the sugars have dissolved into the mixture. The vibrant orange of the pumpkin is not just pleasing to the eye—it’s packed with nutrition and adds a wonderful moisture to your bread.
Mix the dry and wet ingredients
Now comes the exciting part! Gently fold your dry mixture into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to stop once you see no dry flour left, which should take about a minute. The batter may be a bit lumpy, but that’s perfectly fine—it contributes to the bread's texture.
Bake the pumpkin bread
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan. Place it in your preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when it’s nicely domed, golden brown, and a cake tester comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool the bread before glazing
Once baked, place the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes to cool down. This step helps prevent the glaze from sliding off when you drizzle it on later. Carefully run a knife along the edges, and let the loaf cool off completely.
Make the salted brown butter glaze
While your bread cools, it’s time to create that decadent glaze that takes this pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze to another level. In a small heatproof bowl, combine powdered sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Then, melt your unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until it turns golden brown. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen!
Drizzle the glaze over the pumpkin bread and serve
Once your butter has achieved that beautiful brown color, pour it into the bowl with the sugar mixture along with milk and vanilla. Whisk until smooth. Now, slowly drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, allowing it to cascade down the sides. After 10 minutes, slice it up and share the deliciousness with friends or family. Enjoy your homemade pumpkin bread, knowing that you’ve created a cozy, scrumptious treat perfect for any occasion!
Variations of Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a beloved treat perfect for showcasing seasonal flavors, and the possibilities are truly endless! Here are a couple of delightful variations to inspire your baking adventures.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Why not sweeten the classic with a handful of chocolate chips? Adding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze gives it a wonderful richness that contrasts beautifully with the spices. Simply fold in about a cup of chocolate chips before you transfer the batter to the pan for added indulgence.
Nutty Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts or Pecans
For a delightful crunch, try incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into your bread. These nuts not only add texture but also introduce a lovely, earthy flavor that complements the pumpkin purée. About a cup of your favorite nuts mixed in will elevate your bread to new heights and might even become your new favorite variation!
Feel free to experiment and make these recipes your own, and don’t forget to share your tasty creations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Bread
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
To achieve the perfect loaf of pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. This promotes even mixing and a better rise. Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine. Also, to add extra flavor, consider toasting the spices for a couple of minutes in a dry pan before adding them to the mix. Lastly, for a deliciously moist texture, try using homemade pumpkin purée, which you can easily make by roasting fresh pumpkins!
Notes on Ingredient Substitutes
If you're missing some ingredients, don't worry! You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or whole wheat flour. For a dairy-free option, use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. To lower sugar, consider using maple syrup or honey, adjusting the wet ingredients slightly. Looking for alternatives to malted milk powder? Try using powdered milk. These simple substitutions ensure you can enjoy this pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze no matter your dietary preferences!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Bread with Salted Brown Butter Glaze
Best pairings for pumpkin bread
When indulging in pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze, consider pairing it with:
- Cream cheese: A spread of creamy goodness can elevate the flavor.
- Turkey bacon: The savory crunch complements the bread’s sweetness perfectly.
- Coffee or chai tea: These warm beverages enhance the comforting spices in the bread.
Ideal occasions for serving pumpkin bread
This delectable treat shines in various settings:
- Brunch gatherings: Impress friends with this slice of autumn.
- Holiday celebrations: It's a festive treat that adds a cozy touch to any gathering.
- Gift giving: Wrap it up for a thoughtful homemade present that friends or family will love.
Pumpkin bread is versatile. For more delightful ideas, check out this article on seasonal baking!
Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Bread
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze takes about 15 minutes. Gather your ingredients and tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven and bake for approximately 65 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and develop that perfect golden crust.
Cooling Time
After baking, let your bread cool for about 40 minutes. This step is crucial for helping it set up and makes slicing a breeze later on.
Total Time
In total, you should expect to spend around 2 hours from start to finish. It's well worth the wait when you treat yourself to a warm slice of this delightful bread!
For more tips, check out our guide on baking techniques to enhance your culinary skills while making this delicious treat.
Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Bread with Salted Brown Butter Glaze
Calories
This delicious pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze contains approximately 280 calories per serving. While it’s a treat to indulge in, balancing it with nutritious meals throughout the day can help maintain your daily caloric goals.
Protein
Each slice offers about 4 grams of protein, thanks to the eggs and milk included in the recipe. To boost the protein content, consider adding a side of Greek yogurt or a glass of milk.
Sugars
You’ll find around 18 grams of sugar in each serving, primarily from the added sugars and natural sweetness of the pumpkin. For those watching their sugar intake, you might experiment with reducing the granulated sugar slightly without sacrificing flavor.
Enjoy your baking adventure, and remember – treats like this can fit into a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation! For more details, check sources like the USDA FoodData Central to better understand the nutritional benefits of ingredients.
FAQ about Pumpkin Bread
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh pumpkin can elevate your pumpkin bread with a delightful, wholesome flavor. To prepare fresh pumpkin, roast the pumpkin or butternut squash until soft, then puree it for your recipe. For a detailed guide on making pumpkin puree, check out this helpful link.
How do I store leftover pumpkin bread?
To keep your pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it chill to room temperature before serving if you’ve stored it in the fridge!
Can I freeze pumpkin bread?
Yes, you can freeze your pumpkin bread! After it cools completely, wrap it in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Conclusion on Pumpkin Bread with Salted Brown Butter Glaze
This delightful pumpkin bread with salted brown butter glaze is the perfect blend of cozy flavors that captures the essence of fall. Enjoy each slice warm, topped with the luscious glaze for a truly indulgent experience. Share it with friends and family, and savor the smiles it brings! For more pumpkin-inspired recipes, check out Serious Eats’ guide on pumpkin purée here.
Pumpkin Bread With Salted Brown Butter Glaze
Equipment
- 8 ½- by 4 ½-inch loaf pan
- wire rack
- rimmed baking sheet
- 1-quart stainless steel saucier
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 8 ounces all-purpose flour such as Gold Medal
- ½ ounce malted milk powder such as Ovaltine
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt for table salt, use the same weight or half as much by volume
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 large eggs (3 ½ ounces; 100 g)
- 8 ounces pumpkin or butternut squash purée canned or homemade
- 5 ounces neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil
- 4 ounces granulated sugar
- 4 ounces light brown sugar
- 2 ounces milk any fat percentage
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze
- 2 ounces powdered sugar sifted
- ¼ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt for table salt, use half as much by volume
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ounce unsalted butter
- ½ ounce milk any fat percentage
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
For the Bread
- Grease an 8 ½- by 4 ½-inch loaf pan and line with a 7- by 13-inch sheet of parchment paper so that parchment hangs over the long sides of the pan to form a sling. Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat to 350°F (177°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, malted milk powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until well combined.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin/squash purée, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla until thoroughly combined and sugars are dissolved, about 1 minute.
- Add flour mixture to egg mixture. Whisk just until incorporated and no dry flour remains, about 1 minute.
- Using a flexible spatula, scrape batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake until loaf is domed and golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out with few moist crumbs attached, or to an internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C), about 1 hour.
- Transfer pan to a wire rack set in rimmed baking sheet to cool for 30 minutes. Run a butter knife along edges to loosen, then lift loaf using overhanging parchment. Remove parchment and return loaf to wire rack.
For the Glaze
- In a heatproof small bowl, combine powdered sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a 1-quart stainless steel saucier, melt butter over medium-low heat. Increase heat to medium and simmer, stirring with a heat-resistant spatula while butter hisses and pops. Continue cooking and stirring until foaming subsides, scraping up brown bits that form on bottom, and butter is golden yellow and milk solids are chestnut brown in color, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add milk, vanilla, and butter, along with all the brown bits, to powdered sugar mixture and whisk until smooth. You should have 3 ounces (about ⅓ cup; 80g) of glaze.
- Slowly drizzle glaze evenly over top of pumpkin bread, letting it drip down sides. Allow glaze to set for 10 minutes, then slice bread with serrated knife and serve.
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