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The first bite of this Chocolate Pumpkin Bread feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. When the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s nothing more inviting than the scent of rich chocolate wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the earthy notes of pumpkin. This recipe is not just a scrumptious treat; it’s a celebration of the season, offering a moist, fudgy loaf that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

What makes this bread truly special is its versatility—it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With just 100 calories per slice, it’s vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free, allowing everyone to enjoy it guilt-free! And if you’re exploring dietary options, fear not; variations for keto and gluten-free are just as delicious.

Whether it’s served warm with your morning coffee or as a delightful dessert to impress guests, this Chocolate Pumpkin Bread is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into a recipe that brings comfort and joy with every slice!

Why Will You Love Chocolate Pumpkin Bread?

Deliciously Moist: The combination of chocolate and pumpkin results in a rich, fudgy loaf that you won’t be able to resist.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Each slice boasts only 100 calories, allowing you to enjoy dessert without the worry.

Dietary Flexibility: This recipe is naturally vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free, plus offers easy variations for keto or gluten-free diets.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this scrumptious bread in no time.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it warm as a cozy breakfast or as a dazzling dessert to impress your guests!

If you’re looking for more quick and easy baking ideas, check out our easy quick bread recipes.

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

• To create this delightful loaf, gather these simple ingredients.

For the Batter

Flour – Provides structure for the bread; all-purpose or gluten-free flour works best.
Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor; regular unsweetened cocoa is essential for our Chocolate Pumpkin Bread.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture.
Baking Soda – Helps the bread rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
Sugar – Sweetens the batter; can be replaced with coconut sugar or erythritol for sugar-free options.
Pumpkin Puree – Keeps the bread moist and adds natural sweetness; you can mix in half mashed bananas for a fun twist.
Water – Adjusts the batter’s consistency as needed.
Oil/Almond Butter – Provides moisture; replace with more pumpkin for a low-fat version.
Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – Recommended for a delightful burst of chocolate in every bite, helping to complement the pumpkin flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the loaf.
Ground Cinnamon (optional) – An optional spice that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

This Chocolate Pumpkin Bread is not just delicious—it’s also adaptable for various dietary preferences, making it a wholesome choice for everyone!

How to Make Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once baked.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This helps to disperse the leavening agents for a fluffy loaf.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, water, oil or almond butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and well-integrated to maintain moisture in the bread.
Form Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in mini chocolate chips at this stage for an extra chocolatey treat.
Bake: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Cooling is crucial for the best texture and flavor development!

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chocolate Pumpkin Bread?

Savoring a slice of this delightful bread opens the door to endless culinary pairings that enhance its rich flavors.

Creamy Coffee: The smooth richness of a latte compliments the chocolate while the warmth awakens the sweet notes of pumpkin.
Spiced Chai Tea: With its aromatic spices, chai tea mingles beautifully with the chocolate, creating a cozy beverage pairing for chilly days.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: The tanginess of yogurt contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the bread, adding a nutritious boost and creamy texture.
Warm Almond Butter: Drizzling almond butter over a warm slice offers a nutty flavor and adds protein, making it a satisfying breakfast choice.
Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, pecans, and vinaigrette revitalizes the meal, balancing the sweetness of the bread with its crunch.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your indulgence by drizzling melted dark chocolate on top—rich, decadent, and an extra touch of luxury!
Vanilla Ice Cream: Enjoying a warm slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast that simply melts in your mouth.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Lean into the seasonal flavors with this drink; it resonates beautifully with the pumpkin notes in the bread.
Apple Cinnamon Compote: The sweet-tart flavors of cooked apples with cinnamon offer a warm, fruity contrast that brightens each bite of bread.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix alongside your bread can provide a crunchy contrast and a delightful taste complement.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Store the Chocolate Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever you crave it!
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through; this brings back the fudginess and chocolate flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Pumpkin Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator. To keep the batter fresh, cover it tightly to avoid any drying out. The dry ingredients can also be pre-measured and stored in a separate container for up to 3 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the wet and dry mixtures, add in the mini chocolate chips, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Chocolate Pumpkin Bread with minimal effort on your busy days!

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs! Each variation makes this chocolate pumpkin bread even more exciting.

Keto-Friendly: Replace pumpkin puree with plain Greek yogurt for added protein; adjust sweetener accordingly.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to maintain a fluffy texture while meeting dietary needs.
Banana Bliss: Swap half of the pumpkin puree with mashed bananas for a fun and fruity twist on flavor.
Low-Fat Option: Reduce oil/almond butter and substitute with additional pumpkin puree for a lower fat version without sacrificing moisture.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the bread.
Chocolate Chunk Delight: Instead of mini chocolate chips, chop dark chocolate bars for varied texture and flavor bursts throughout.
Spiced Variation: Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a warm, cozy essence in every slice.
Chili Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness!

Explore these fun twists and let your creativity shine with each loaf!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

Measure Accurately: Use kitchen scales for precise measurements, especially for flour and cocoa powder, to achieve the perfect chocolate pumpkin bread texture.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps retain moisture and ensures a better crumb texture.
Choose the Right Flour: If opting for gluten-free, use a blend that includes xanthan gum to replicate the structure of traditional flour; avoid whole wheat or coconut flour.
Check Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking the bread a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out mostly clean for perfectly baked bread.
Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to sprinkle in extras like nuts or spices, but don’t go overboard, as this can impact the delicate balance of flavors in the chocolate pumpkin bread.
Enjoy it Warm: For a cozy treat, serve the bread warm alongside your favorite beverage—it elevates the fudgy texture and chocolate flavor!

Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Chocolate Pumpkin Bread?
Absolutely! I recommend using all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the best texture. Avoid whole wheat or coconut flour as they can alter the moisture and flavor profile. If you use gluten-free, look for blends that include xanthan gum for added structure.

How should I store leftover Chocolate Pumpkin Bread?
Store your Chocolate Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it wrapped tightly, where it can last up to a week. To maintain its wonderful moisture, make sure the container is completely sealed!

Can I freeze Chocolate Pumpkin Bread?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 15-20 seconds!

What if my Chocolate Pumpkin Bread is too dry?
If your bread turns out dry, it could be due to overbaking—so keep an eye on it the last few minutes in the oven. Also, ensure you measure your flour accurately; too much can make it dense and dry. If you encounter dryness, serve it with a spread like almond butter or a drizzle of chocolate for added moisture!

Is this Chocolate Pumpkin Bread suitable for anyone with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free, making it a thoughtful option for those with dietary restrictions. However, if you’re serving it to guests, just ensure there are no nut allergies if you choose to include almond butter or chocolate chips, and be cautious with any substitutions.