Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread Recipe

If you are looking for a burst of autumnal comfort, you have got to try this Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread. It’s not just any pumpkin bread; it’s a luscious, chocolate-infused treat with a perfectly soft and gooey texture that melts in your mouth. Combining the warm spices and natural earthiness of pumpkin with rich cocoa and chocolate chips, this bread offers a delightful balance of flavors and an irresistibly moist crumb. Whether for breakfast, a cozy snack, or dessert, this recipe is my personal favorite for any pumpkin lover craving a sweet chocolate twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients come together to create the magic of Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread. Each element plays a vital role: from the pumpkin puree lending vibrant color and moisture, to the cocoa powder and chocolate chips bringing deep chocolate richness, every bite is pure comfort.

• ¼ cup Butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the bread without overwhelming it.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the chocolate and pumpkin flavors beautifully.
• 1 Egg: Acts as the binding agent, ensuring a cohesive and moist texture.
• ⅓ cup Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness while helping with browning.
• ½ cup Brown sugar: Contributes a subtle molasses flavor and extra moisture.
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt: Elevates all flavors by balancing the sweetness and deepening the chocolate taste.
• ½ cup Greek yogurt: Adds tangy moisture and tenderness without heaviness.
• ½ cup Cocoa powder: Brings intense chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark color.
• 1 ½ cups Canned pumpkin puree: Infuses the bread with natural moisture, body, and that unmistakable pumpkin essence.
• 1 cup Flour: Provides the structure for the bread while keeping it light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly with a soft crumb.
• 1 cup Chocolate chips: Burst of melty chocolate that takes every bite to the next level.

How to Make Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepping a loaf pan with parchment paper. This ensures your bread will bake evenly and release effortlessly from the pan after baking. It’s a simple step that really makes the final presentation smooth and clean.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, cooled melted butter, kosher salt, egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Use a whisk to blend everything together until your mixture is silky and uniform. This is where the magic starts—getting that batter smooth will give your bread the right moist and gooey texture.

Step 3: Add Flour and Leavening

Now, add the flour and baking soda to your wet mixture. Stir gently until the batter is almost combined; take your time here. You want to avoid overmixing because developing gluten will make the bread dense, and we’re aiming for tender and moist. A few small lumps are perfectly okay.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Next, fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overworking the batter. These delightful pockets of melted chocolate will create moments of sweet surprise in every slice.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your parchment-lined loaf pan, then scatter a few extra chocolate chips on top for a luscious finish. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma is intoxicating, and the wait is absolutely worth it.

How to Serve Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

To enhance your bread’s presentation and flavor, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. Whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting complements this bread’s moist texture beautifully. Fresh berries alongside can add a pop of freshness and contrast.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte, making it a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon pick-me-up. For dessert, scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of mascarpone can elevate this bread into an indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and toast your Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread lightly for a warm, crunchy texture. You can even use it as a base for bread pudding or turn thick slices into decadent French toast. For a party, serve small squares on a platter with an assortment of spreads like nut butters, honey, or fruit preserves to delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store your Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to a week without drying out its famously moist texture.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place slices in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

For that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. Just enough to revive the soft texture and melt those chocolate chips again without drying the bread out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and puree your pumpkin flesh until smooth and drain any excess moisture before measuring it out. This will ensure the bread maintains its perfect moist texture.

Is Greek yogurt essential for the recipe?

Greek yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can substitute with sour cream or buttermilk if needed, but yogurt provides the best texture.

Can I use all-purpose flour or should I use another type?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for this bread, giving structure without heaviness. For a gluten-free version, try a blend designed for baking, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Why is my bread dense and dry sometimes?

This often happens if the batter is overmixed or if flour is measured too heavily. To avoid this, measure flour carefully by spooning and leveling, and mix just until combined.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Definitely! Adding warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice can enhance the pumpkin flavor and add extra aromatic depth to your Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about slicing into a loaf of this Moist Chocolate Pumpkin Bread. Its rich chocolate flavor perfectly complements the subtle pumpkin, creating a treat that feels like a hug on a chilly day. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I enjoy baking it—it’s an all-time favorite that’s sure to become yours too. Give it a go and savor every moist, chocolaty bite!