Amazing Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread: 1 Easy Recipe

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Chocolate chunk pumpkin bread has been my absolute favorite fall treat for as long as I can remember. There’s something so comforting about the aroma filling my kitchen – that warm, spicy scent mixed with melting chocolate is pure bliss! I first tried making it years ago, aiming for that perfect balance of tender, moist cake and pockets of gooey chocolate. My grandmother used to make a similar loaf, and I’ve tinkered with her recipe to get this version just right. This moist chocolate pumpkin bread delivers on texture and flavor every single time, making it a guaranteed hit. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible loaf! It’s truly the easy chocolate chunk pumpkin bread you’ve been searching for, packed with all the flavors of autumn. You’ll adore the incredibly moist texture, thanks to the pumpkin puree and oil.

Unbelievably moist and tender crumb
Packed with warm, comforting fall spices
Generous pockets of gooey, melty chocolate
Super simple and quick to prepare
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
This pumpkin bread with chocolate chips is a crowd-pleaser
The aroma alone will make your home feel cozy

Ingredients for Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect loaf. You’ll find that the combination is key to achieving that signature moist texture and rich flavor. This pumpkin bread recipe chocolate chunks comes together with pantry staples and a few fall favorites.

1 cup canned pumpkin – this is the secret to our moist texture
1 1/4 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness
1/2 cup vegetable oil – keeps the bread tender
1 Egg – for binding
1 1/2 cup all purpose flour – the base of our bread
1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – for lift
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps with leavening and browning
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice – brings those warm fall notes
1 cup Dark chocolate chunks – for melty, gooey goodness

How to Make Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Let’s get baking this delicious loaf! Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly moist and chocolatey pumpkin bread. This how to make chocolate chunk pumpkin bread guide ensures a fantastic result every time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 1 cup canned pumpkin, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1 Egg, and 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice. Blend until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 4: Gently stir in the 1 cup Dark chocolate chunks. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for that perfect chocolatey bite.
Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set slightly.
Step 8: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the best texture. Enjoying this how to bake chocolate pumpkin bread is worth the wait!

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Want to elevate your loaf from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference for this chocolate chunk pumpkin bread.

Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour – this is the golden rule for a tender, moist crumb. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, leading to a tough bread.
Use good quality dark chocolate chunks. They hold their shape better than chips and create pockets of intense chocolate flavor.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This is tough, I know, but it allows the internal structure to set properly, preventing it from crumbling.

What’s the secret to perfect chocolate chunk pumpkin bread?

The real secret to a perfect, moist chocolate pumpkin bread is not overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Also, using canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling!) is essential for that signature moisture and flavor.

Can I make chocolate chunk pumpkin bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bread stores beautifully. You can bake it a day or two in advance and keep it at room temperature, wrapped tightly. It’s perfect for meal prep! For more baking tips, check out our recipes section.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chocolate chunk pumpkin bread?

The most common mistake is overmixing, which makes the bread dense and dry. Another is not baking it long enough. Always test with a toothpick; if it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time. This ensures an easy chocolate chunk pumpkin bread every time.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

This loaf is fantastic on its own, but serving it a few special ways really takes it over the top. The best chocolate pumpkin bread is often enjoyed warm. Try a slice fresh from the oven with a generous smear of creamy butter – it’s simple heaven. For a richer treat, a dollop of cream cheese or even some homemade pumpkin butter complements the spices beautifully. And of course, no cozy fall morning is complete without a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea alongside a thick slice. It’s the perfect companion for those crisp autumn days. Learn more about our baking philosophy.

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per slice of this delicious loaf. It’s a treat that balances flavor with fairly standard values for a baked good. Remember, these are approximations for this delightful chocolate chunk pumpkin bread.

Calories: 694 kcal
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 112 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 40 g
Sodium: 203 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on our site, visit our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Once your delicious loaf is baked, properly storing it is key to keeping it fresh and flavorful. I always make sure my chocolate chunk pumpkin bread is completely cooled before wrapping it up. This prevents any condensation, which can make it soggy.

For short-term storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t finish it within that time, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, the refrigerator is a good option. Stored in the fridge, it can last up to a week. You can find more information about food storage on FoodSafety.gov.

To freeze this delightful treat, wrap the completely cooled bread tightly first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm slice, reheat individual portions in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bread

Can I use milk chocolate in this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for dark chocolate chunks, you can easily substitute milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips if that’s what you prefer or have on hand. Milk chocolate will offer a sweeter, creamier flavor, while semi-sweet provides a nice balance. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite!

Can I add nuts to this chocolate chunk pumpkin bread?

Yes, adding nuts is a fantastic idea! Chopped pecans or walnuts pair wonderfully with pumpkin and chocolate. I recommend adding about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts along with the chocolate chunks in Step 4. They add a lovely crunch and extra flavor dimension to the loaf.

Is this chocolate chunk pumpkin bread healthy?

While this is a delicious treat, it is a baked good and contains sugar and fat. It’s made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and flour, and it’s vegetarian. It’s not typically considered a “health food,” but it’s a wonderful, comforting dessert or snack made from scratch. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet! Learn more about contacting us for more recipes.

What makes this chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe so moist?

The key to its incredible moisture lies in the combination of ingredients. Canned pumpkin puree provides essential moisture and a tender crumb, while the vegetable oil keeps the bread soft and prevents it from drying out, even after cooling. This ensures a wonderfully moist result every time you bake this delightful loaf.

Variations for Spiced Pumpkin Chocolate Bread

This recipe is a fantastic base, but I love playing around with it! If you’re looking for different flavor profiles or dietary options, here are a few ways to change up your chocolate chunk pumpkin bread. It’s amazing how a few tweaks can create something entirely new!

Dairy-Free Delight: Simply swap the vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative like melted coconut oil, and use dairy-free chocolate chunks.
Vegan Version: For a vegan loaf, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and ensure you use dairy-free chocolate.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts along with the chocolate chunks. They add a wonderful texture and earthy flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Experiment with different types of chocolate! Semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chunks can offer a delightful twist.