Name: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 2 cups canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling); ⅔ cup brown sugar; ⅔ cup granulated sugar; 1 cup applesauce OR canola oil; 3 eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups semi sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup mini semi sweet chocolate chips (reserve a couple tablespoons for topping if desired)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 81 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting treat that wraps you up in the warm flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a loaf that’s beautifully moist, bursting with fragrant pumpkin spice, and studded generously with melty chocolate chips—each slice feels like a little bite of autumn magic. Whether you’re looking for a new holiday favorite or a delightful snack to brighten any day, this homemade pumpkin bread is a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

The image shows a loaf of chocolate chip bread on a white rectangular plate. The loaf is sliced into five thick pieces, revealing a soft, moist inside filled with small chocolate chips. The bread's top is covered in many melted chocolate chips, giving it a bumpy texture and rich dark brown color. The plate rests on a light brown cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the bread's texture and the chocolate chips that look shiny and slightly melted. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You'll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward making a Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect texture. Each component plays a key role, from the tenderizing wet ingredients to the warm spices that make this bread sing with seasonal charm.

3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base and structure necessary for a soft but hearty loaf.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy notes while balancing the flavors.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise gently, giving it a light texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to create the perfect crumb.
4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: The signature blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that makes this bread unmistakably autumnal.
2 cups canned pumpkin: Not only for moisture but also adding that vibrant orange hue and classic pumpkin flavor.
⅔ cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
⅔ cup granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar for a well-rounded sweetness.
1 cup applesauce OR canola oil: Applesauce keeps it moist with less fat, while oil gives richness—choose what suits your preference.
3 eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together while adding richness and tenderness.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brightens all the flavors beautifully.
1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The real star, melting into pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the bread.
½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds smaller bursts of chocolate and makes the bread top especially pretty if you reserve some for decoration.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Grease two 8x4-inch loaf pans and line them with parchment paper for easy removal later. This simple step ensures your bread releases perfectly and keeps its shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. This dry mixture forms the flavorful framework for your bread and evenly distributes the warm spices and leavening agents.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, mix the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce or oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. The wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, making your pumpkin bread irresistibly tender.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough. This careful folding keeps your bread light and soft while making sure every bite has that perfect pumpkin flavor.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini chocolate chips, saving a small handful of the minis to sprinkle on top if you like. The gooey, melty chocolate throughout adds a delicious surprise in every slice.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared loaf pans and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking slowly allows the flavors to develop fully and the loaf to cook evenly.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool in its pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling completely ensures each slice holds together beautifully while enhancing the crumb’s moist texture.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe

The image shows a loaf of pumpkin-colored bread studded with chocolate chips on the top and inside. Three slices are cut from the loaf and placed in front on a white marbled surface. The bread has a soft, slightly crumbly texture and a warm, orange-brown color. Some extra chocolate chips are scattered near the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of creamy butter takes this pumpkin chocolate chip bread from delicious to downright decadent. For a festive touch, you could even add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top when the bread is warm.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced chai tea, rich hot chocolate, or even a smooth pumpkin latte for the perfect cozy treat. For brunch, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey for a balanced spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread and making mini sandwiches with cream cheese or mascarpone and a drizzle of maple syrup. For an extra indulgent treat, toast a slice lightly and spread with nut butter and thin apple slices. This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe is so versatile—it’s great warm, at room temperature, or even toasted.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover pumpkin chocolate chip bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, perfect for snacking during busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Freezing

If you want to keep your bread longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaves in foil and then place them in a freezer bag. Your pumpkin chocolate chip bread will maintain quality for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toast them for a crispy edge with a soft, melty center. Reheating freshens up the flavors and brings that comforting aroma back to life.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh pumpkin should be cooked and pureed before using. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid making the bread too wet.

What’s the difference between pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon?

Pumpkin pie spice is a blend including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, giving a complex and warm flavor that cinnamon alone can’t match.

Can I substitute the applesauce with oil or vice versa?

Absolutely! Applesauce makes the bread a bit lighter and adds a fruity note, while oil creates a richer texture. Both work well depending on your preference.

How do I know when my pumpkin chocolate chip bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. Be careful not to overbake to keep it moist!

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans are a fantastic addition that add crunch and extra flavor. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe is more than just a loaf; it’s a little celebration of everything cozy and delicious about the season. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to for autumn comfort and sweet indulgence. Grab your ingredients, get your oven ready, and enjoy every fragrant, chocolatey bite!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need