Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread: A Cozy Slice of New England Tradition

 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• • 4 large eggs

  • 1 cup vegetable oil

  • 2/3 cup water

  • 3 cups granulated sugar

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves

  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger

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  Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pans

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Grease and flour two 9x5-inch loaf pans.

  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and sugar until smooth.

  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

  • In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.

  4. Bring It All Together

  • Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

  • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans.

  5. Bake to Perfection

  • Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  • Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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  Serving Ideas

  • Enjoy a warm slice with a pat of butter or cream cheese.

  • Toast leftovers lightly and drizzle with honey for a cozy breakfast.

  • Serve with a hot mug of apple cider or chai tea for the ultimate autumn pairing.