The Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a dreamy fall bake packed with warm spices and swirled with a sweet, buttery cinnamon layer that forms a delightfully crackly top. Moist, flavorful, and comforting, this loaf captures the essence of autumn in each slice. It’s dairy-free and can be made fully vegan, making it perfect for a variety of diets.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, craving an afternoon pick-me-up, or simply need a way to use up extra pumpkin puree, this recipe will be your go-to all season long. Serve it warm with a pat of vegan butter or enjoy it as-is — it’s tender, fragrant, and utterly satisfying.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
Cinnamon Swirl + Topping
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1/4 cup vegan butter
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1/3 cup sugar (white, brown, or coconut)
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pumpkin Loaf
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1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
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1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
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3/4 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/4 tsp salt
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 tsp ground ginger
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1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
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1/4 tsp ground cloves
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1/2 cup coconut sugar
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2 large eggs, room temperature (or 2 flax eggs for vegan version)
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup pumpkin purée
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1/3 cup plant-based milk
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1/3 cup melted coconut oil
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×4” loaf pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, melt the vegan butter and stir in the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside to cool.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves).
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In a medium bowl, mix the coconut sugar, eggs (or flax eggs), vanilla, pumpkin puree, plant-based milk, and melted coconut oil until smooth.
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Combine the wet ingredients with the dry, mixing just until no flour pockets remain.
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Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle with half the cinnamon swirl mixture.
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Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture.
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Use a chopstick or knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, reaching all the way to the bottom.
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Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Let rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove from pan and let cool on a wire rack.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: ~260 kcal per slice | Servings: 8–10 slices
The Perfect Fall Flavor Combination
Pumpkin bread is a beloved fall classic, but adding a cinnamon swirl elevates it to something truly special. Cinnamon, a spice that immediately evokes warmth and comfort, pairs beautifully with pumpkin’s mild sweetness. The addition of ground ginger, nutmeg, and cloves brings out the complex flavors of autumn, making each bite feel like a warm hug on a crisp fall day. The cinnamon swirl topping not only provides an extra burst of flavor, but it also adds a delightful texture contrast, with its sugary crunch. It’s these little touches that turn a simple loaf into a memorable treat.
A Vegan-Friendly Option for All
For those following a plant-based or dairy-free lifestyle, this recipe is an absolute game-changer. The combination of coconut oil and plant-based milk ensures that this pumpkin bread remains moist without the need for dairy. Plus, by substituting flax eggs for traditional eggs, you can make this loaf completely vegan. The coconut sugar in the recipe also gives the bread a rich, caramel-like sweetness, which works harmoniously with the pumpkin and cinnamon swirl.
Even if you’re not following a vegan or dairy-free diet, this recipe will impress with its depth of flavor. Coconut oil brings moisture to the bread while providing a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the spices. Coconut sugar, with its lower glycemic index than traditional white sugar, is a thoughtful choice for those seeking a healthier alternative, but you can always use white or brown sugar if that’s what you prefer.
The Versatility of Pumpkin Bread
One of the reasons pumpkin bread is such a staple in fall baking is its versatility. It’s a great addition to your breakfast or brunch table, but it also makes for a satisfying snack or dessert. This cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread is perfect for enjoying in the morning with a hot beverage or as an afternoon pick-me-up. You can even serve it as a light dessert after dinner. It’s the kind of bread that pairs beautifully with whipped vegan butter, cream cheese, or even a dollop of your favorite jam.
In addition to being versatile in how you serve it, this bread can also be adapted in various ways. For example, you can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the batter to customize the loaf to your taste. You can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, to cater to specific dietary needs. The cinnamon swirl itself can be adjusted as well—add more or less depending on your preference for a sweeter or more subtle topping.
The Secret to Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures is key when making cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread. One crucial tip is to make sure your coconut oil is melted and your other ingredients are at room temperature. This helps prevent the coconut oil from solidifying into little oil clumps, ensuring a smooth batter. You can quickly warm your eggs by placing them in a glass of warm water for a few minutes, and heating your plant-based milk in the microwave for 20 seconds will also help to keep everything at the right temperature. These little details go a long way in ensuring that your bread turns out perfectly.
Another tip is for the cinnamon swirl itself. You have the option to either swirl half of the mixture into the bread or sprinkle it on top before baking. If you prefer a crunchy topping, go for the latter. However, if you want a more integrated swirl throughout the loaf, mix the entire cinnamon-sugar topping into the batter and gently fold it in. The choice is yours, depending on whether you want a prominent swirl or a more even distribution of cinnamon flavor throughout the loaf.
A Loaf for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing for a cozy fall breakfast, hosting a fall gathering, or looking for the perfect gift to give to friends and family, this cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread is a winning choice. It’s perfect for making ahead—simply store it in an airtight container and enjoy for a few days after baking. This bread also freezes wonderfully, so you can make a batch in advance and have it ready for whenever you need a quick treat. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to three months.
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, the option to make this bread both vegan and gluten-free (by swapping in your favorite gluten-free flour blend) makes it even more inclusive. It’s a treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their dietary needs.
Baking for the Season: A Time for Cozy, Homemade Treats
Baking during the fall is a tradition that many of us hold dear, and it’s easy to see why. The warm, comforting scents that fill the kitchen as the bread bakes are one of the best parts of the season. This cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread captures all of the best elements of fall baking. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressively flavorful, and it offers a beautiful balance of sweetness, spices, and moistness. Plus, the cinnamon swirl topping adds a touch of elegance that will make your guests feel like they’re indulging in something truly special.
While the classic version of this pumpkin bread recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen, don’t be afraid to play around with it. The possibilities for variations are endless—add-ins like raisins, walnuts, or cranberries can take this bread in a whole new direction. You can even use this recipe as the base for a pumpkin cake or cupcakes. Whatever way you choose to enjoy it, this cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread will definitely become a go-to fall recipe that you return to year after year.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of the flavors and warmth of fall. With its tender, moist texture, perfectly spiced pumpkin flavor, and delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl, it’s a loaf that’s bound to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or part of a cozy breakfast, it’s sure to bring a bit of autumn magic into your home. Plus, with its vegan and dairy-free options, it’s a recipe that can be shared and enjoyed by all, making it the perfect fall treat to bake and share with loved ones.