Five Spice Pumpkin Bread with Toasted Pecans
Celebrate the autumn season with a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This Five Spice Pumpkin Bread with Toasted Pecans is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the warmth of five spice powder enhancing the rich taste of pumpkin. Ideal for cozy afternoons, this bread promises a flavorful molasses-like depth with each bite, complemented by the crunch of pecans.
Five spice powder, a blend of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds, brings a unique dimension to this pumpkin bread. The combination of warm spices serves as a perfect counterpart to the naturally sweet and earthy pumpkin flavor. The addition of toasted pecans adds a satisfying crunch and nutty richness, making this bread a versatile offering for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Ingredients
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon five spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, five spice powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Slice and serve as a delicious autumn treat, or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
FAQs
What is the role of five spice powder in this recipe?
Five spice powder adds a unique flavor profile to the pumpkin bread. It provides a blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that deepen the overall taste, making the bread more aromatic and flavorful.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. You may need to drain some excess moisture if the puree is too watery.
How do I toast pecans?
To toast pecans, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute for pecans if you prefer or if you have a different nut on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.
Conclusion
Five Spice Pumpkin Bread with Toasted Pecans is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s an embodiment of fall flavors wrapped in a warm, tender loaf. The decadently spiced bread, paired with the crunch of pecans, becomes the ultimate comfort food. Whether enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or paired with a hot beverage on a crisp autumn day, this bread is sure to become a staple in your seasonal baking repertoire.
More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations
– Apple Cinnamon Bread: A delightful alternative with chunks of fresh apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
– Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolaty twist.
– Cranberry Walnut Bread: Incorporate dried cranberries and walnuts for a tangy and nutty variation.
– Zucchini Pumpkin Bread: Blend grated zucchini with the pumpkin mixture for a moist, veggie-rich take on the classic.
– Maple Pecan Banana Bread: Substitute pumpkin puree with mashed bananas and add a hint of maple syrup for sweetness.
By experimenting with these suggestions, you can create various delicious bread combinations that cater to different tastes and preferences, each one a celebration of the comforting flavors of fall.