Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Moist, spiced, and studded with melty chocolate chips, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is the ultimate fall baking treat. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making it perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee. With its tender texture from applesauce and bursts of chocolate in every slice, this bread is sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or even a snack throughout the day. It pairs well with coffee or tea!
- Perfect for Fall: With its warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor, this bread embodies the essence of autumn baking.
- Freezer Friendly: Leftovers can be easily frozen for later enjoyment, ensuring you have this delicious treat on hand whenever you crave it.
Tools and Preparation
To get started on your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pans (9×5 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pans: These are crucial for shaping your bread and ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk: A good whisk makes it easy to combine ingredients thoroughly without lumps.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup applesauce or canola oil
- 3 eggs (room temp)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Chips
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (reserve some for topping)
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5 loaf pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Salt
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Pumpkin pie spice
Make sure everything is evenly combined to ensure a consistent flavor throughout the bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Canned pumpkin
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar
4. Applesauce (or canola oil)
5. Eggs
6. Vanilla extract
Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in both types of chocolate chips into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Divide the batter into the prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle any reserved mini chocolate chips on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Bake in your preheated oven for about one hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool before slicing to enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread!
How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there are endless possibilities.
For Breakfast
- Toast it – Lightly toast slices for a warm start to your day.
- Spread cream cheese – Add a layer of cream cheese for extra richness.
- Pair with coffee – Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte.
As a Snack
- Slice and share – Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
- Top with nut butter – Spread almond or peanut butter for added protein.
- Add fruits – Serve with fresh fruit like apples or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
For Dessert
- Serve with ice cream – Top warm slices with vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle caramel sauce – A sweet caramel drizzle elevates the flavors.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
To ensure your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread turns out perfect every time, consider these tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh baking powder and spices enhance flavor and texture.
- Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off to avoid dense bread.
- Mix gently – Fold wet and dry ingredients until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Check doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
- Cool completely before slicing – Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Greek Yogurt – A serving of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Cinnamon Apples – Sautéed cinnamon apples provide warmth and spice that complement the bread perfectly.
- Chai Tea – A warm cup of chai tea pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cozy flavors of fall.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad adds freshness and crunch, contrasting beautifully with the moist bread.
- Pumpkin Soup – Serve alongside pumpkin soup for a comforting seasonal combination.
- Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses can create an enjoyable sweet and savory pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a recipe as delightful as Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can affect the texture of your bread. Always let your eggs sit at room temperature for better mixing.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour accurately.
- Overmixing batter: Overmixing can make your bread tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
- Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree: Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the flavor. Stick to plain canned pumpkin for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Slice before storing for easy access.
Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread:
How do I make my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread even more moist?
Adding an extra 1/4 cup of applesauce can enhance moisture without altering flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
You can replace chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits for different flavors in your bread.
How long does homemade Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread last?
When stored properly, it lasts up to a week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted, this recipe delivers warmth and comfort with every bite. Feel free to customize it with nuts or different types of chocolate chips!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is the quintessential autumn treat that blends the rich flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate chips. This moist and spiced loaf, perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or a delightful breakfast, is sure to impress. With its tender texture from applesauce and bursts of melty chocolate in every slice, you’ll want to savor every bite. Easy to make and freezer-friendly, this delicious recipe captures the essence of fall baking.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 cups canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup applesauce or canola oil
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9×5 inch loaf pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In another bowl, mix the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce (or oil), eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; do not over-mix.
- Gently add both types of chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and top with reserved mini chocolate chips if desired. Bake for about an hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg







