There’s something magical about fall in New England — the scent of wood smoke in the air, the crunch of golden leaves underfoot, and, of course, the warm aroma of pumpkin bread baking in the oven. Today, I’m sharing a beloved classic that perfectly captures that feeling: Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread.

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🍞 Introduction

This Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread is everything autumn should taste like — moist, tender, and perfectly spiced. Originating from the coastal region of Maine, this recipe has become a staple across kitchens for its comforting flavor and simplicity.

What makes it truly special? The balance. It’s not overly sweet or dense, but just right — with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves blending beautifully with the natural richness of pumpkin. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted the next day with a smear of butter, every bite feels like a hug from home.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread

Here’s why this loaf earns a permanent spot in my fall baking lineup:

🍂 Perfectly Spiced: The blend of warm spices creates that unmistakable fall aroma.
🍞 Moist and Tender: Thanks to the pumpkin purée and oil, it stays soft for days.
🧡 Simple to Make: No fancy tools — just mix, pour, and bake.
❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Bake extra loaves to enjoy all season long (they freeze beautifully!).
🎁 Great for Gifting: Wrap a loaf in parchment and twine for a thoughtful homemade treat.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

To make two glorious loaves of Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread, gather the following:

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
⅔ cup water
3 cups granulated sugar
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ground ginger

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

Two 9x5-inch loaf pans
Large mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9x5-inch loaf pans.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin purée, eggs, oil, water, and sugar. Whisk until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
Bring it all together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined — don’t overmix!
Pour and bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

The smell when this is baking? Absolutely heavenly! 🧡

🍯 Serving Suggestions

With butter or cream cheese: A slice warm from the oven with a pat of butter melts in the most delicious way.
For breakfast: Pair it with coffee or chai for a cozy start to your morning.
As dessert: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

💡 Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
Don’t overmix the batter — this keeps your bread light and tender.
Add-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or cranberries make fun variations!
For extra moisture, substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce.

🧊 Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

ℹ️ General Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves (about 16 servings total)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Just roast, mash, and strain your pumpkin to remove excess liquid. Use about 2 cups of purée.

Why is it called “Downeast”?
“Downeast” refers to the coastal region of Maine, where this old-fashioned recipe has roots in traditional Yankee cooking.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the top should spring back lightly when touched.

✨ Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a loaf of Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread to bring warmth to your kitchen. With its cozy spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and irresistible aroma, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every fall — and maybe even beyond.

So go ahead — bake it, share it, and savor every slice of this New England classic. 🍁

🍂 More Cozy Fall Recipes

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Maple Pecan Scones
Brown Butter Apple Crumble

📸 Share Your Bake!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your pumpkin bread creations! Tag me on Pinterest or share your photos online — nothing makes me happier than seeing your cozy kitchen moments.

🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

Calories: 270
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 26g