Get ready to indulge in a delightful autumn treat with Patricia Terry's Pumpkin Muffins or Bread, bursting with the flavors of fall! Whether you’re cozying up with a warm muffin or slicing into a loaf, this recipe combines the rich taste of pumpkin puree with the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, these muffins and bread are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring these delicious bites in no time. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 muffins or 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk together until smooth and well incorporated.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins or bread tough.
- Fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- If making muffins, fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter. If making a loaf, pour the entire batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Muffins may require slightly less time than a full loaf.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree. If you can, roast and puree your own pumpkin for a richer taste.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins or bread.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to swap out dried cranberries and pecans for other favorites like walnuts or chocolate chips for a unique twist.
- Check for Doneness: Muffins may bake faster than the loaf. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Storage Tips: To keep your muffins or bread fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Serve Warm: For an extra treat, warm your muffins or bread before serving. A little butter spread on top takes them to the next level!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
