Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread
Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that marries the warmth of pumpkin spice with the convenience of a packaged cake mix. This easy, flavorful bread features a tender crumb and a rich, slather-worthy frosting that brings all the cozy autumn vibes. The earthy notes of pumpkin combined with the spiced sweetness create a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a festive gathering with friends and family.
Table of Contents
I’ll never forget the first time I made this recipe during a crisp fall afternoon. The warm aroma of spiced pumpkin wafted through the house, drawing my family into the kitchen like moths to a flame. As we gathered around, the anticipation of that first slice made it almost impossible to wait. With its quick preparation and ease of ingredients, Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread became a staple in our household. It’s not only satisfying to eat, but it also delights everyone who tries it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy to Make: Whip up this bread in about an hour with minimal prep and cook time.
- Heavenly Flavor: The combination of spiced cake and pumpkin creates a moist, irresistible treat.
- Beautiful Presentation: Topped with creamy brown sugar frosting, it’s a showstopper for any table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a special dessert to celebrate the season.
- Versatile Recipe: Makes a great base for variations, including adding nuts or chocolate chips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can pumpkin purée, 15 oz.: This gives the bread moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor. Make sure to use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1 boxed spice cake mix (13.25 – 15.25 oz.): Betty Crocker is a favorite for its flavor and texture. It simplifies your baking process while still offering great taste.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature: Eggs help with the structure and richness of the bread. Room temperature ensures they mix in smoothly.
- ¼ c oil, vegetable or canola: This adds moisture. Feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
- 2 tbsp whole milk: Enhances moisture and tenderness.
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin spice: A warm blend that is essential for that cozy flavor.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Extra depth of flavor that makes the bread irresistible.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
- ½ tsp orange zest, optional: For a bright, citrus note that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- 4 oz block cream cheese, softened: This is the base of your frosting, giving it a creamy texture.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the frosting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Flavors the frosting and enhances its creaminess.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar: For a hint of caramel flavor and sweetness in the frosting.
- Pinch of sea salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
- 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar: Adjust to achieve your desired frosting consistency and sweetness.
How to Make Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs until slightly frothy. Add in ¼ cup oil, 15 oz. pumpkin purée, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp whole milk. Whisk until well combined.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: Add 1 boxed spice cake mix (13.25 – 15.25 oz.), 1½ tsp pumpkin spice, 1 tsp cinnamon, and optional ½ tsp orange zest. Stir gently just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
- Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease and flour an 8.5 by 4.5 inch loaf pan. This helps your bread to come out smoothly after baking.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top begins browning too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil.
- Cool the Bread: Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully take the bread out of the pan and let it cool completely on the rack.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat 4 oz. softened cream cheese and 3 tbsp butter until creamy. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and ¼ cup light brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Chill the Frosting: Once combined, chill the frosting in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost the bread.
- Frost the Bread: When the bread is completely cool, spread the chilled frosting generously over the top. Chill again for about 2 hours to allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.
Storing & Reheating
To store your Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal texture. For longer storage, refrigerate in the same type of container, lasting up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. To refresh, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, as this can help revive its moist texture.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier texture.
- Don’t over-mix the batter once the dry ingredients are added—this helps maintain a tender crumb.
- If using a glass loaf pan, check for doneness earlier, as glass conducts heat differently.
- Customize your frosting! Add in a bit of maple syrup for a fall twist, or sprinkle in some nuts for texture.
- This bread can be made ahead of time; in fact, its flavor improves after a day in the fridge!
Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the season without too much fuss in the kitchen. The combination of cozy spices, creamy frosting, and the warm aroma wafting through your home makes this recipe a beloved favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with it—try adding mini chocolate chips or toasted walnuts for a delicious twist. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this delightful treat!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While a spice cake mix is recommended for its warm flavors, you can use a vanilla or even a chocolate cake mix as an alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How do I know when the pumpkin bread is done?
Perfectly baked pumpkin bread should spring back slightly when touched and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, give it an extra few minutes in the oven.
Can I freeze the bread after I frost it?
It is best to freeze the bread without frosting. You can frost it after it thaws for the best texture and flavor. If needed, freeze it wrapped tightly and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I add to my pumpkin bread for extra flavor?
There are many delicious options! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. You might also try adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or more orange zest for a unique twist!
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📖 Recipe Card
Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts & Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread boasts a rich pumpkin flavor blended with spices, making it an effortless choice for a cozy dessert. Enjoy it topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of comfort. Perfect for gatherings or a delicious snack!
Ingredients
- 1 can pumpkin purée, 15 oz.
- 1 boxed spice cake mix, 13.25 – 15.25 oz.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp orange zest, optional
- 4 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- pinch of sea salt
- 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until slightly frothy.
- Add oil, pumpkin, vanilla, and milk to the eggs and whisk to blend.
- Incorporate the cake mix, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and orange zest. Mix gently until combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Grease and flour a loaf pan, then pour in the batter, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking at 40 minutes; tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before removing from pan.
- To prepare the frosting, cream together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add in vanilla extract and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until desired consistency is achieved. Chill until ready to use.
- Once the bread cools completely, frost the top with the cream cheese frosting and chill for about 2 hours before serving.
Notes
You can use any spice cake mix for this recipe based on your preference.
Feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on how sweet you like your frosting.
The orange zest is optional but adds a lovely hint of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
