Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction: A Slice of Autumn Comfort
There’s something about the scent of warm pumpkin spice, sweet cinnamon, and golden loaves cooling on the counter that instantly transports you into the heart of fall. Baking Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl is more than just preparing another dessert it’s about creating a memory. These tiny loaves bring the perfect blend of cozy flavors, manageable portions, and festive charm, making them an irresistible addition to your Thanksgiving baking traditions. Whether you’re baking them for family gatherings, gifting to friends, or simply savoring them with a cup of coffee, these mini breads will warm both your kitchen and your heart.
Why Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl is Perfect for Thanksgiving
- Combines classic fall flavors into a moist, sweet bread.
- Perfect portion size for guests and gifting.
- Easy to make in one bowl, which frees up time and reduces cleanup.
- Versatile can be baked in mini loaf pans, a muffin tin, or even as one full loaf.
Ingredients for Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large egg | 1 | Provides structure and moisture |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | Balances the spices with sweetness |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | Adds depth with caramel-like flavor |
| Pumpkin puree | ½ cup | Pure canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) |
| Neutral oil | ¼ cup | Such as canola or vegetable |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the warm flavors |
| All-purpose flour | ¾ cup | Forms the base of the bread |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp | Helps the batter rise |
| Baking soda | ⅛ tsp | Works with pumpkin for lift |
| Pumpkin pie spice | 1 ½ tsp | Adds that iconic holiday flavor |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Cinnamon sugar | 2–3 tbsp | For the swirl topping |
Step-by-Step: How to Bake Mini Pumpkin Bread
Preparing the Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix wet ingredients: egg, sugars, pumpkin puree, oil, vanilla.
- Sift dry ingredients on top: flour, baking powder, baking soda, spice, salt.
- Whisk until no dry streaks remain.
Adding the Cinnamon Swirl
- Pour batter into prepared mini loaf pans.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar on the surface.
- Swirl gently with a knife (only on the surface for a crunchy topping).
Baking Times by Pan Size
| Pan Type | Bake Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brownie Pan | 20–23 minutes | Makes 5 mini loaves |
| 2 Mini Loaf Pans | 28–30 minutes | Yield: 2 small loaves |
| Muffin Pan | 20–23 minutes | About 6 muffins |
| 9×5 Loaf Pan (doubled recipe) | 50–55 minutes | Full family-sized loaf |
Tips for Perfect Mini Pumpkin Bread
Flavor Enhancements
- Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries.
- Increase spice with an extra pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Storage and Freezing
- Wrap cooled breads in plastic and store at room temperature for 5–7 days.
- Freeze up to 3 months for holiday prep.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Recipe
- Convenience: Bake ahead and store for later.
- Gift-worthy: Perfect size for sharing with friends and neighbors.
- Family-approved: Classic fall spices and moist texture appeal to everyone.
FAQ: Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many readers recommend it with no substitutions.
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just be sure to drain and puree well to match the consistency of canned pumpkin.
Q: How do I keep the bread moist?
Avoid overbaking. Remove from the oven when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs, not fully dry.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Double the amounts for a standard 9×5 loaf pan. Adjust baking time to about 50–55 minutes.
Conclusion: Bring Autumn to Your Table
Thanksgiving isn’t just about the big turkey feast. It’s also about the smaller details the warm breads, the heritage recipes, and the new traditions you create along the way. With Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl, you’re giving your loved ones more than dessert. You’re sharing comfort, nostalgia, and a piece of holiday magic. So, this season, preheat your oven, swirl in that cinnamon sugar, and bake loaves that will be remembered long after the last slice is gone.
Try this Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl at your next holiday gathering, and don’t forget to bake a few extra loaves they make the sweetest little gifts for your guests!