Small Batch Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Recipe

The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Recipe Ever

Cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread brings autumn’s warmest comfort straight to your kitchen.

Fragrant spices dance through soft, tender crumbs, creating a sensory experience that feels like a cozy embrace.

Delicate swirls of sweet cinnamon weave through moist pumpkin-infused batter, promising a delightful treat that beckons you closer.

Seasonal baking crafts simple ingredients into something magical and irresistible.

Each slice carries the essence of crisp fall mornings and nostalgic family gatherings.

Rich flavors blend seamlessly, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and warmth.

This small batch recipe ensures you enjoy freshly baked goodness without overwhelming leftovers.

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread for Small Batches

  • Craft Speedy Seasonal Comfort: Whip up this small batch pumpkin bread in under an hour, delivering warm autumn flavors without massive time commitment.
  • Master Effortless Swirling Technique: Create gorgeous cinnamon sugar marbling with simple toothpick or knife movements, transforming ordinary batter into a stunning visual treat.
  • Enjoy Versatile Baking Options: Flexibility to use mini loaf pans or brownie pan means you can adapt the recipe to your kitchen equipment and serving preferences.

Ingredients in Small Batch Pumpkin Bread

Wet Ingredients:
  • Egg: Fresh egg provides structure and binding for the bread.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeteners that add depth and moisture to the pumpkin bread.
  • Pumpkin: Seasonal puree that brings rich flavor and natural moistness.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures a tender and soft bread texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet background flavor to complement the spices.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Primary base for the bread's structure and texture.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the bread rise and become light.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Swirl and Topping:
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Warm spice blend that gives classic autumn flavor.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: Creates a sweet, spicy swirl and crackly top layer for added texture and taste.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Warm up the oven to 350°F (176°C). Position the rack right in the middle of the oven.

Grab your baking pan and get it ready:
  • For mini loaf pans: Lightly coat with cooking spray
  • For brownie pan: Line 5 wells with parchment paper strips

Use parchment strips that hang over the sides for easy bread removal.

Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • Egg
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vegetable oil
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift your dry ingredients over the wet mixture:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Pumpkin pie spice
  • Salt

Gently fold everything together until no flour streaks remain.

Step 4: Create Cinnamon Swirl

Pour batter into prepared baking pan.

Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar on top.

Use a toothpick to create beautiful swirls across the surface.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Baking times vary by pan:
  • Brownie pan: 20-23 minutes
  • Mini loaf pans: 28-30 minutes

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick- it should come out almost clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let bread rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes.

Lift out using parchment paper strips.

Place on wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious pumpkin bread!

Tips for Soft, Moist Pumpkin Bread Every Time

  • Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for ingredients to ensure the perfect texture and rise of your pumpkin bread.
  • Swirl with Finesse: Create beautiful cinnamon swirls by using a toothpick or knife to gently drag the cinnamon sugar through the batter in soft, deliberate motions.
  • Check for Doneness: Test the bread's readiness by inserting a toothpick near the center- it should come out with just a few moist crumbs, not completely wet.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool entirely before slicing to prevent crumbling and help the flavors develop fully.
  • Store Smartly: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Best Way to Keep and Reheat Pumpkin Bread

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator to maintain moisture and freshness.
  • Freeze: Slice the bread, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
  • Reheat: Warm refrigerated or thawed bread slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes until slightly warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the bread.

What Goes with Small Pumpkin Bread Slices

  • Pair with Warm Spiced Chai Latte: Complement the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors with a creamy, aromatic chai latte that echoes the bread's warm spices and provides a comforting, rich drinking experience.
  • Serve alongside Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Create a delightful dessert contrast by topping a slice with a scoop of smooth vanilla bean ice cream, which balances the bread's warmth and adds a cool, creamy texture.
  • Match with Maple Pecan Butter: Elevate the bread's taste by spreading a homemade maple pecan butter that enhances the pumpkin's sweetness and adds a nutty, rich dimension to each bite.
  • Enjoy with Caramel Macchiato: Complete the autumn-inspired treat with a caramel macchiato that brings out the bread's deep, sweet undertones and provides a luxurious coffee complement.

Fresh Takes on Swirl Pumpkin Bread

  • Nutty Crunch Pumpkin Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter and sprinkle extra nuts on top before swirling for a delightful textural boost.
  • Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Swirl: Fold semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter and create a rich, decadent variation that complements the warm cinnamon notes.
  • Cream Cheese Ribbon Bread: Swirl a softened cream cheese mixture between layers of pumpkin batter for a tangy, luxurious enhancement to the classic recipe.
  • Maple Pecan Pumpkin Bread: Replace some granulated sugar with maple syrup and incorporate toasted pecans for a deep, autumnal flavor profile that elevates the traditional bread.
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Small Batch Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Small Batch Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Seasonal spices dance through this small batch cinnamon swirl pumpkin bread, promising autumn comfort in every slice. Warm cinnamon ribbons and rich pumpkin create a delightful quick bread perfect for enjoying alongside morning coffee or afternoon tea.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • ½ cup pure canned pumpkin
  • ¼ cup canola oil
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour

Sweeteners:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (176°C) and positioning the rack in the center of the oven.
  2. Carefully coat mini loaf pans or brownie pan wells with grease and create parchment paper slings to facilitate easy bread removal.
  3. Combine egg, sugars, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla in a medium bowl, whisking until the mixture transforms into a smooth, uniform consistency.
  4. Sift flour, leavening agents, spices, and salt over the liquid ingredients, gently incorporating them until no dry pockets remain.
  5. Distribute the batter evenly across the prepared baking vessels, ensuring consistent volume in each section.
  6. Lavishly sprinkle cinnamon sugar across the surface of the unbaked bread.
  7. Delicately weave the cinnamon sugar into the top layer using a toothpick or thin knife, creating elegant swirling patterns.
  8. For brownie pan configurations, bake approximately 20-23 minutes; for mini loaf pans, extend baking time to 28-30 minutes.
  9. Verify doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should emerge with minimal, moist crumbs.
  10. Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully extract using the parchment paper handles.
  11. Transfer to a wire rack and permit complete cooling before slicing or serving.

Notes

  • Versatile Baking Options: Choose between mini loaf pans or a brownie pan for flexible serving sizes that suit your needs.
  • Precise Mixing Technique: Whisk wet and dry ingredients gently to maintain a smooth, light texture without overmixing.
  • Cinnamon Swirl Magic: Create beautiful marbled patterns by generously spooning cinnamon sugar and using a toothpick to swirl delicately.
  • Perfect Doneness Trick: Test bread’s readiness with a toothpick – it should come out mostly clean, indicating a moist, perfectly baked interior.
  • Cooling Strategy: Allow bread to rest in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack, ensuring structural integrity and easier removal.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: This small batch recipe can be prepared quickly and stored at room temperature, making it ideal for spontaneous baking or unexpected guests.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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