Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Bread at Home

Why Make Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Bread at Home?

The iconic Starbucks pumpkin bread is a fall favorite, beloved for its moist texture, balanced spices, and that delightful crunch of pumpkin seeds on top. But making it at home means you can enjoy it fresh, customize it to your taste, and avoid preservatives or additives. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for cozy weekends.

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Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Wet Ingredients

• Pumpkin purée: The star of the show, giving moistness and classic pumpkin flavor.

• Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil: Keeps the bread tender and soft.

• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: For balanced sweetness and moisture.

• Eggs: Provide structure and richness.

• Vanilla extract: Enhances the warm flavors.

Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Gives the bread structure.

• Baking soda & baking powder: The leavening agents to keep the bread light.

• Salt: Balances sweetness and brings out spice flavors.

• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: The perfect fall spice blend for that Starbucks taste.

Topping

• Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): Add a toasty crunch signature to Starbucks pumpkin bread.

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Step-By-Step Guide to Homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

Step 3: Sift Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

• This ensures even spice distribution and prevents lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently until just combined.

• Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and soft.

Step 5: Pour and Top

• Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

• Sprinkle pumpkin seeds evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

• Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Bread

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and pumpkin purée are at room temp for better mixing.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until dry ingredients disappear to avoid dense bread.

• Check oven temp: Use an oven thermometer to prevent under- or over-baking.

• Customize spices: Adjust cinnamon or cloves according to your preference.

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Variations to Try at Home

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

• Nutty add-ins: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.

• Swirl effect: Add a cream cheese swirl before baking for a richer treat.

• Less sweet: Reduce sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet loaf.

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How to Store Your Pumpkin Bread

• Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate up to one week, but bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

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FAQs About Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Bread

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin purée?
A: Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée is perfect and consistent. Just avoid pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free if you use vegetable or coconut oil.

Q: What’s the best way to get pumpkin seeds crunchy?
A: Lightly toast them in a dry pan before sprinkling on top or sprinkle as is—they’ll toast slightly while baking.

Q: Can I make muffins instead of bread?
A: Yes, bake in a muffin tin for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, double ingredients and bake in two loaf pans to avoid dense texture.

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Why This Recipe is a Must-Bake This Fall

This homemade version perfectly captures the Starbucks pumpkin bread experience while letting you control ingredients, freshness, and portion sizes. It’s great for breakfast on-the-go, afternoon coffee breaks, or even gifting during the holidays. Plus, the pumpkin seeds add that authentic crunch Starbucks fans love.