Name: Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup Greek yogurt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup light brown sugar (or coconut sugar); 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1-2 teaspoons milk

If there’s one treat I can’t resist as soon as the leaves start to turn, it’s a thick, tender slice of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread. With its cozy blend of warm spices, pure pumpkin, and a sweet maple glaze, this loaf brings out all the best flavors of fall in every single bite! Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or as a comforting dessert, this bread brings the aroma and spirit of autumn right into your kitchen.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread plays a key role, from tenderizing the crumb to infusing fragrant spice notes. Don’t worry—the list is simple and made up of pantry favorites you probably already have! Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture, while also carrying the spices beautifully throughout the bread.
Pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, providing a deep orange color, subtle earthy sweetness, and that classic pumpkin flavor.
Greek yogurt: Makes for a delightfully tender crumb and adds just a touch of tanginess for balance.
Large eggs: Essential for binding everything together and ensuring the bread rises just right.
Light brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Brings moisture and a gentle caramel note that deepens the pumpkin’s flavor.
Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and a rich maple flavor that sets this bread apart.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the spice blend.
All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the loaf and gives it enough lift to be fluffy yet moist.
Baking soda: Works with the yogurt to create lift for a light, springy texture.
Baking powder: Adds a little extra rise for a perfectly domed loaf.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and makes every note of chai spice pop.
Cinnamon: The king of fall spices, bringing warmth and depth.
Cardamom: Gives a slightly floral, cozy flavor that’s the secret to any great chai-inspired bake.
Ground ginger: Adds a mild warmth and zing that wakes up the other spices.
Ground allspice: For a sweet, peppery note that ties right in with the pumpkin and maple.
Ground cloves: Delivers a deep, aromatic spice, making each bite irresistible.
Powdered sugar: The sweet foundation for our silky maple glaze.
Maple syrup (for glaze): Infuses that lovely, unmistakable flavor right into the topping.
Milk: Just enough to make the glaze perfectly pourable and glossy.

How to Make Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the sides for easy removal later. This simple trick ensures you’ll be able to lift your finished Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread out of the pan with zero sticking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until you have a luscious, smooth batter. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all those fragrant chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix; you want to keep all that tender goodness intact!

Step 3: Bake the Bread

Scrape your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top for even baking. Slide it into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like a chai tea latte and a pumpkin pie decided to become best friends. Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 4: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and just enough milk to create a drizzle-worthy glaze. Pour the glaze over the cooled Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, then let it set for about 10 minutes. This finishing touch adds sparkle and a sweet maple burst with every bite!

How to Serve Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

Give your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread a little extra flair with some creative garnishes! Sprinkle the freshly glazed top with crushed candied pecans, a dusting of ground cinnamon, or even a handful of pumpkin seeds. These small touches not only look beautiful but add a bit of extra crunch and flavor.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs perfectly with a creamy latte, a hot cup of spiced chai, or even a glass of cold milk for dipping. For a cozier brunch vibe, serve slices alongside Greek yogurt and a fruit salad, or add it to a breakfast cheese board with soft, buttery cheeses and fresh apple slices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, try cutting the loaf into thick slices and arranging them on a bright platter. Drizzle with extra maple glaze right at the table, or package individual slices in parchment paper for sweet homemade gifts. You can even cube leftover bread for pumpkin chai bread pudding later on—there’s truly no wrong way to enjoy it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled and glazed, wrap the Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay plush, tender, and flavorful on the counter for up to two days, or in the fridge for five.

Freezing

If you want to make this treat ahead of time, just leave off the glaze and wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before glazing and serving.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or toast it gently in a toaster oven. The spices and maple flavors will bloom all over again, making each bite just as comforting as the first!

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully in Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread, just make sure it’s well-drained so the batter isn’t too wet. The flavor will be fresher and you’ll get that made-from-scratch satisfaction.

What if I don’t have all the chai spices?

No worries—you can use a blend of what you have on hand. Cinnamon and ginger are non-negotiable for warmth, but don’t stress over missing one spice. You can also substitute two teaspoons of pre-mixed chai spice blend if you prefer convenience.

Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Yes, with a small swap! Replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The loaf may be slightly more delicate, but the flavor stays just as cozy and bold.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Keep an eye on baking time, as larger loaves or pans may need a few extra minutes. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or freezing an extra loaf for later.

How much chai flavor comes through?

The spice profile of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is cozy but not overpowering—you’ll taste the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and maple in perfect harmony with the pumpkin. Each slice offers just the right blend of warmth and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fall baking project that’s as delightful to make as it is to devour, Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with the aromas, flavors, and countless cozy moments a single loaf brings to your kitchen!