This rich pumpkin bread merges deep chocolate flavor with the warmth of spices. Perfect for fall or any time you crave something comforting, it’s a treat with a satisfying texture and a hint of sweetness from the frosting.
Why you’ll love this dish
The blend of pumpkin and dark chocolate creates a unique, moist bread that’s deliciously inviting. It’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
“This is the best pumpkin bread I’ve ever made—so moist and flavorful!”
It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.
How it comes together
This recipe combines wet and dry ingredients before baking, then tops with a simple frosting. The process is straightforward and lends itself well to variations.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 60 min | Total Time: 1 hr 15 min
What you’ll need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Frosting (powdered sugar, cocoa, milk, vanilla)
Use unsweetened cocoa for best results.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix the flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt, spices, and cocoa.
- In another bowl, whisk the sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over the cooled bread.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve warm or at room temperature. Pair it with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage and reheating tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw before frosting.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not over-mix to keep the bread light and tender.
- Test doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Recipe variations
- Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar for a different sweetness.
- Add chocolate chips for an extra chocolate boost.
- Mix in nuts for added texture.
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Rich Pumpkin Chocolate Bread
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist pumpkin bread with deep chocolate flavor and warm spices, perfect for fall or any comforting craving.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Frosting (powdered sugar, cocoa, milk, vanilla)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Mix the flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt, spices, and cocoa in a bowl.
- Whisk the sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla in another bowl until combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over the cooled bread.
Notes
Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair with coffee or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: pumpkin bread, chocolate bread, fall recipes, dessert recipes, baking
