The Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread for Morning Coffee

What if the perfect autumn morning ritual could be captured in a single slice of warm, spiced bread that transforms your ordinary coffee break into a cozy seasonal celebration? This chocolate chip pumpkin bread delivers exactly that experience, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with rich chocolate morsels in a tender, moist loaf that pairs beautifully with your favorite morning brew.

Unlike traditional pumpkin breads that can turn dense or dry, this breakfast recipe strikes the perfect balance between moisture and structure, creating a delightful treat that’s become a seasonal staple in kitchens across the country. The combination of warm spices and melted chocolate creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home with the essence of fall, making every morning feel special and indulgent.

Ingredients List

For this chocolate chip pumpkin bread you’ll need a carefully curated selection of pantry staples and seasonal ingredients that work together to create the perfect texture and flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that coveted moist crumb and balanced sweetness that makes this loaf so memorable.

Dry Ingredients:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:

• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• ⅓ cup water

Add-ins:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (reserve 2 tablespoons for topping)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Timing

This chocolate chip pumpkin bread requires careful attention to timing to achieve optimal results and ensure the perfect texture in every slice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 60-70 minutes at 350°F
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes in pan, then 30 minutes on wire rack before slicing
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Position your oven rack in the center to ensure even baking throughout the loaf.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until evenly distributed. This step is crucial for ensuring your spices are well-incorporated and prevent any pockets of concentrated flavor. The whisking also aerates the flour, contributing to a lighter texture in the finished bread.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar and oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, emulsified mixture. Stir in the pumpkin puree and water until the mixture is completely smooth and no streaks remain. The key here is achieving a homogeneous wet mixture that will distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Create the Perfect Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough, dense loaf. The batter should look slightly lumpy, which is perfectly normal and desired for tender quick bread.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few tablespoons for sprinkling on top. Toss the chocolate chips in a light dusting of flour before adding them to prevent sinking to the bottom during baking. This simple technique ensures even distribution of chocolate throughout each slice.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top gently with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the surface for an attractive appearance and extra chocolate in every bite. The batter should fill the pan about two-thirds full for optimal rise.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched. If the top browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the chocolate chip pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This patience is rewarded with clean, beautiful slices that showcase the chocolate chips and maintain the bread’s structure.

Nutritional Information

For a serving of this chocolate chip pumpkin bread, you’ll receive a satisfying blend of nutrients that make this treat more than just an indulgence.

• Calories: 285 per slice (based on 12 slices per loaf)
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 38g
• Vitamin A: 184% of daily value
• Iron: 8% of daily value
• Potassium: 195mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform your chocolate chip pumpkin bread into a healthier version with these modifications that maintain the delicious flavor while boosting nutritional value.

• Whole grain flour substitution: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for increased fiber and nutrients
• Natural sweetener options: Substitute half the sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for reduced calories and added moisture
• Oil alternatives: Use Greek yogurt or pumpkin puree in place of half the oil to cut fat while maintaining tenderness
• Dark chocolate upgrade: Switch to dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher) for antioxidants and less sugar
• Protein boost: Add 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds for omega-3 fatty acids and extra protein
• Sugar reduction: Decrease sugar by ¼ cup and add extra spices like vanilla extract or maple extract for enhanced flavor without calories
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your chocolate chip pumpkin bread experience with these ideas that transform a simple slice into a memorable culinary moment.

• Classic coffee pairing: Serve warm slices of your chocolate chip pumpkin bread with freshly brewed coffee, allowing the steam to release the bread’s aromatic spices
• Cream cheese spread: Top with softened cream cheese mixed with a touch of honey and cinnamon for added richness
• Seasonal butter: Whip butter with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt for a gourmet spread
• Ice cream dessert: Serve your chocolate chip pumpkin bread slightly warmed with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an evening treat
• French toast transformation: Use day-old slices to make decadent pumpkin spice French toast for weekend brunch
• Gift presentation: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine for thoughtful autumn gifts
• Breakfast board: Include slices on a seasonal breakfast board with fresh fruit, nuts, and warm beverages

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Master this chocolate chip pumpkin bread by avoiding these pitfalls that can turn your perfect loaf into a disappointing result.

• Overmixing the batter: Stop stirring as soon as the flour disappears to prevent tough, dense bread with poor texture
• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree: Always use plain pumpkin puree to control spice levels and sugar content
• Incorrect oven temperature: Verify your oven temperature with a thermometer, as variations can cause uneven baking or burnt tops
• Opening the oven door too early: Resist checking before 50 minutes to prevent the bread from sinking in the center
• Skipping the toothpick test: Always test for doneness with a toothpick to avoid underbaked centers or overbaked edges
• Cutting too soon: Allow proper cooling time to prevent crumbling and ensure clean, attractive slices
• Improper measuring: Level flour measurements and avoid packing to ensure accurate ratios and proper texture

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Preserve the freshness of your chocolate chip pumpkin bread with these strategies that maintain optimal flavor and texture for days.

• Room temperature storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature
• Refrigerator method: Keep the chocolate chip pumpkin bread in the refrigerator for up to one week, bringing slices to room temperature before serving for best taste
• Freezer preservation: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in freezer bags for up to 3 months
• Preventing staleness: Place a slice of fresh chocolate chip pumpkin bread in the container to help maintain moisture levels
• Reviving day-old bread: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore freshness and enhance flavors
• Make-ahead strategy: Bake and freeze multiple loaves during peak pumpkin season for convenient autumn treats
• Portion control: Pre-slice and wrap individual portions for grab-and-go breakfast options throughout the week

Conclusion

This chocolate chip pumpkin bread perfectly combines seasonal flavors with comforting textures, creating the ideal companion for your morning coffee ritual. The moist, spiced crumb studded with melted chocolate chips delivers satisfaction in every bite, while the simple preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re welcoming fall flavors or seeking the perfect breakfast treat, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will become a cherished addition to your seasonal baking repertoire.

Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of autumn spices and chocolate? Try this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe today and share your baking success in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your creative variations and serving suggestions that make this bread uniquely yours.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree? Yes, for this chocolate chip pumpkin bread, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture that could affect the bread’s texture.

Why did my bread sink in the middle? This typically occurs from opening the oven door too early, incorrect oven temperature, or expired baking soda that lacks proper leavening power.

Can I make this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe dairy-free? Absolutely, this recipe is naturally dairy-free when using vegetable oil, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

How do I know when the bread is perfectly done? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter clinging to it.

Can I double this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe for multiple loaves? Yes, this recipe doubles well, but bake each loaf separately to ensure even cooking and proper texture development.

What’s the best way to slice this chocolate chip pumpkin bread without crumbling? Use a sharp serrated knife in a gentle sawing motion, and ensure the bread is completely cooled before slicing for clean cuts.