There’s something about pulling a loaf of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread from the oven that turns an ordinary morning into a cozy celebration. Warm, spiced notes swirl through the air, promising that first perfect slice topped with a pat of melting butter. Warm up your kitchen with this irresistibly spiced Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, perfect for cozy moments! With just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, a 50–60 minute bake, and a quick 10-minute rest, even a beginner baker can bring this tender, fragrant quick bread to life. Whether you’re slicing it up as a breakfast treat or savoring it as a dessert, you’ll fall head over heels for the harmony of pumpkin puree, pure maple syrup, and a homemade chai spice blend.
Every bite of this delightful bread combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm chai spices, and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, creating a moist, aromatic treat that’s perfect for any time of day. I still remember the first time I drizzled a bit of extra maple syrup over a warm slice while sipping my morning coffee—it felt like a hug in loaf form. At around 210 calories per slice (assuming 12 slices per loaf), it’s indulgent yet just sweet enough to keep you coming back for more. Whether you serve it at a holiday brunch or pack it in lunchboxes, this loaf never fails to elicit smiles.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHAI SPICE MAPLE PUMPKIN BREAD
Before you dive into mixing bowls and measuring spoons, let’s break down the core players that make this loaf so special. Each ingredient contributes flavor, structure, and that signature pumpkin-and-spice magic.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy foundation and structure for the bread’s tender crumb. Its balance of protein and starch holds the loaf together without weighing it down.
- Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise and creating light, airy texture. It also balances acidity from the pumpkin puree.
- Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to guarantee an even lift and maintain a delicate, fluffy interior.
- Salt: Enhances the sweetness and deepens the warm spices, ensuring each flavor pops just right.
- Chai spice mix: A blend of ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves brings that quintessential chai warmth. Adjust proportions to make it as bold or gentle as you like.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the batter to add rich, velvety moisture and buttery depth, keeping the crumb soft and tender.
- Pure maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness with a hint of caramel-like complexity and pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that lends vibrant color, silky texture, and autumnal goodness.
- Large eggs: Bind ingredients together, add richness, and help the loaf rise to perfect height.
- Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors with sweet, floral notes that complement both maple and chai spices.
- Milk: Adds extra moisture and yields a smoother, more cohesive batter—use dairy or non-dairy based on preference.
- Chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional): Introduce a crunchy or melty surprise in every bite. Walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips all work wonders.
HOW TO MAKE CHAI SPICE MAPLE PUMPKIN BREAD
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of transforming simple ingredients into a loaf that will fill your home with warmth and spice. This beginner-friendly method ensures you’ll have a gorgeous, fragrant bread in no time.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and set it aside so it’s ready when the batter is mixed.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and chai spice mix until evenly combined and free of lumps.
3. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture is silky smooth and homogenous.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the wet ingredients. Stir thoroughly after each addition so the batter remains silky. Fold in the vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet bowl, stirring gently until the flour just disappears. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
6. Stir in the milk until the batter reaches a smooth consistency. If you’re using chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now for delightful texture pops.
7. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
10. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature and savor each spiced, pumpkin-filled bite.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHAI SPICE MAPLE PUMPKIN BREAD
After all that baking love, it’s time to turn your slices into moments of pure enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch or whipping up a quick, soul-soothing snack, these serving ideas will elevate every bite to an irresistible treat.
- Warm Slice with Butter: Lightly toast a slice, then spread a generous pat of high-quality butter. The heat will melt the butter into all the little nooks, creating a sumptuous, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Drizzle with Chai Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of chai-spiced milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled slices for an extra layer of sweetness and that lovely spice kick.
- Top with Cream Cheese Spread: Blend softened cream cheese with a teaspoon of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon. Slather over each slice for a tangy, creamy contrast to the loaf’s warmth.
- Pair with a Cozy Beverage: Serve alongside a mug of your favorite chai tea latte or a bold black coffee. The complementary flavors tie together nostalgically comforting vibes for breakfast or afternoon tea.
HOW TO STORE CHAI SPICE MAPLE PUMPKIN BREAD
Storing your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread properly ensures each slice retains its moisture and flavor, whether you’re enjoying it the next day or weeks later. Follow these tried-and-true methods to keep every bite as delightful as when it first came out of the oven.
- Room Temperature Storage: Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to 3 days to maintain tenderness and moisture.
- Refrigeration: If your kitchen runs warm, pop the wrapped loaf in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature or gently microwave slices for 10–15 seconds before serving.
- Freezing for Long-Term: For storage beyond a few days, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then warm briefly in the oven or toaster.
- Portion & Reheat: Pre-slice the loaf, wrap each slice separately, and freeze. When you’re ready, remove individual slices and toast or microwave until warm—perfect for quick breakfasts or on-the-go treats.
CONCLUSION
Baking Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is a joy from start to finish. The process is delightfully straightforward—perfect for beginner bakers—and the results are nothing short of magical. You’ve learned how to combine basic pantry staples like flour, baking soda, and pumpkin puree with a fragrant chai spice mix, pure maple syrup, and rich butter to create a moist, aromatic loaf. The step-by-step guide ensures your bread rises perfectly, develops that beautiful golden crust, and stays tender inside. Whether you choose to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts, or simply keep it pure, you’ll find that each variation brings its own charm to this versatile quick bread.
This recipe truly shines as both a breakfast staple and a dessert showstopper, with a prep time of just 15 minutes, baking for 50–60 minutes, and a quick 10-minute rest before slicing. At around 210 calories per slice, it’s an indulgence you can feel good about sharing with family and friends. Feel free to print this article and save it for later—this loaf is one you’ll want to revisit each season. You can also find a FAQ below to help with any troubleshooting or extra tips you might need. If you try the recipe, please leave a comment, ask questions, or share your own twists. Your feedback and experiences bring this recipe to life, and I can’t wait to hear how your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread turns out!
Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread
Description
This delightful bread combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm chai spices, and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, creating a moist, aromatic treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and chai spice mix.
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In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Add the eggs, one at a time, to the wet ingredients, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Stir in the milk until the batter reaches a smooth consistency. If using, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Slice and serve the bread either warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Note
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can customize the chai spice mix by adjusting the proportions of each spice to suit your taste.
- For a more decadent option, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and a touch of chai-spiced milk over the cooled bread.
