Super Moist & Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe with Irresistible Maple Glaze (Made with Cake Mix!)

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread filling your home. This particular recipe takes all the guesswork out of baking, offering a **super moist, quick, and incredibly easy pumpkin bread** that starts with a simple spice cake mix box. What truly elevates this autumnal delight is the luscious, homemade maple glaze that drizzles over the top, creating a perfect symphony of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s an absolute must-try dessert, ideal for any Fall occasion, from cozy family evenings to festive Halloween and Thanksgiving parties.

The magic of the Fall season brings with it an abundance of warm, inviting scents, and this pumpkin bread recipe captures that essence perfectly. While the pumpkin-spiced bread itself is wonderfully flavorful, the maple glaze is truly the star that takes this dessert over the top. Its sweet, natural maple notes perfectly complement the rich pumpkin and spice, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Trust us, you won’t want to skip this crucial step!

If you’re a true pumpkin enthusiast, exploring other delightful pumpkin creations is a must. Don’t miss out on these other fantastic recipes: our Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (5 Ingredients), a surprisingly simple and delicious classic; Easy Pumpkin Fudge (Microwave), perfect for a quick sweet fix; or these soft and chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. They are all absolutely to die for, much like our spooky compilation of Halloween dessert recipes, which are sure to add a treat to your trick-or-treating festivities.

Why This Is Your New Go-To Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Forget complicated baking projects! This cake mix pumpkin bread is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Effortlessly Simple: Starting with a cake mix drastically cuts down on prep time and the number of ingredients needed. It’s baking made easy!
• Incredibly Moist Texture: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, this bread boasts an exceptionally moist and tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
• Rich Fall Flavors: The combination of spice cake mix, extra pumpkin spice, and the natural sweetness of pumpkin creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that embodies autumn.
• Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful bread baking in your oven in no time, making it perfect for last-minute treats.
• Irresistible Maple Glaze: The homemade maple glaze adds a touch of gourmet sophistication and a burst of warm, sweet flavor that truly sets this bread apart.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with various add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even other fruits to create your unique version.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy morning with coffee, a dessert for a holiday gathering, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this pumpkin bread is always a hit.

Key Ingredients for This Quick Cake Mix Pumpkin Bread

One of the best things about this recipe is its reliance on readily available, simple ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this bread so special:

• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients, providing structure, and adding richness to the bread. Make sure they are large and at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smoother batter. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with other ingredients.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient! Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience. It provides incredible moisture and that classic pumpkin flavor. Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter already contains spices and sugar which would alter the recipe significantly.
• Cake Mix: The secret to its speed and simplicity! I highly recommend using a **spice cake mix** as it already contains a wonderful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, enhancing the pumpkin flavor beautifully. This ingredient is what makes the bread so quick and effortless.
• Pumpkin Spice: While a spice cake mix already has spices, an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice truly amplifies those warm, inviting fall flavors. You can easily find this pre-mixed at any grocery store, or make your own blend at home using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This is optional, but highly recommended for a truly aromatic bread.
• Maple Syrup: This is for the glorious glaze! Use pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup) for its authentic, rich, and warm sweetness. Its natural flavor is unparalleled and perfectly complements the pumpkin.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar. This finely milled sugar is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free, and glossy maple glaze. Not to be confused with granulated sugar, which would create a gritty glaze.

Creative Variations and Customization Ideas

This easy pumpkin bread recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for many delicious adaptations to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

• Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, simply combine the cake mix and pumpkin puree and bake. This creates a denser, more cake-like bread without the need for eggs. Many love this two-ingredient method for its simplicity and unique texture. Just be sure your cake mix is vegan-friendly (check the ingredients!).
• Chocolate Chip Version: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Stir in ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) into the batter near the end of mixing. For best results and to prevent them from sinking to the bottom, lightly toss the chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour first before folding them into the batter.
• Add Bananas: For a delightful pumpkin-banana fusion, reduce the quantity of pumpkin puree by half and replace it with an equal amount of mashed ripe bananas. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and moisture.
• Use Zucchini: Introduce a hidden vegetable boost! Reduce the pumpkin puree by half and replace it with an equal amount of finely shredded zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the shredded zucchini thoroughly before adding it to the batter to prevent a soggy bread.
• Try it with Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer a richer, tangier topping, omit the maple glaze entirely and replace it with a generous layer of classic Cream Cheese Frosting. This is a popular pairing for pumpkin desserts. You can even serve slices alongside my Easy Pumpkin Dip (Cheesecake) for an extra festive treat.
• Make Muffins: This recipe is perfectly suited for muffin tins! No changes to the batter are necessary. Simply fill muffin pans halfway (using liners or greasing well) and adjust the baking time. Muffins typically bake faster, usually around 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. They will be similar to my Easy Pumpkin Muffins (With Cake Mix).
• Add Nuts for Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of textural contrast, fold in ½ to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. As with chocolate chips, tossing them in a little flour first will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them can also enhance their flavor.
• Add Streusel Topping: For a classic bakery-style touch, add a streusel topping before baking. A simple streusel made from flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon creates a lovely crunchy crust. You can even add a drizzle of the maple glaze on top of the streusel once the bread is cooled for an extra decadent finish.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Cake Mix Box: A Simple Guide

Making this delicious pumpkin bread is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect loaf every time:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, begin by combining the room temperature eggs and canned pumpkin puree. Whisk them together until they are smooth and well-incorporated. This ensures an even base for your bread. Next, add the spice cake mix and the optional pumpkin pie spice. Mix gently until *just combined*. It’s crucial not to over-mix at this stage, as over-mixing can develop too much gluten, leading to a dense and rubbery texture. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!
2. Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the prepared batter into your loaf pan (a standard 9×5 inch pan works best), which has been properly greased and floured to prevent sticking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 55 minutes. The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is ready.
3. Mix the Maple Glaze: While your pumpkin bread is cooling in the pan (or on a wire rack), prepare the star of the show: the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the pure maple syrup and powdered sugar until the mixture is completely smooth and boasts a beautiful, glossy consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more maple syrup or milk, a quarter teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
4. Drizzle and Enjoy: Once the pumpkin bread has cooled down completely to room temperature, generously drizzle the prepared maple glaze over the top. You can use a spoon for a rustic look or pour it evenly for a fuller coating. Allow the glaze to set for about 5-10 minutes, then slice into thick, inviting pieces and savor every warm, spiced bite!

Essential Tips and Techniques for the Best Pumpkin Bread

Achieving the perfect super moist pumpkin bread is easy with these simple yet crucial tips:

• Don’t Overbake: This is perhaps the most important tip for moist bread. Overbaking is the quickest way to dry out your loaf. Keep a close eye on it, and as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with moist crumbs, not wet batter), remove it from the oven. Overbaking can also hinder rising and cause the center to sink.
• Skip the Oil or Water: Unlike traditional cake recipes, this cake mix bread specifically omits added oil or water. The pumpkin puree provides all the necessary moisture, and the cake mix already contains the fats and leavening needed. Adding more liquid or fat will throw off the delicate balance and could result in a greasy or overly wet bread.
• Properly Grease and Flour Your Pan: To ensure your beautiful pumpkin bread slides out of the pan effortlessly, always grease your loaf pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, then dust it lightly with flour. Tap out any excess flour. This creates a non-stick barrier.
• Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients: For the smoothest, most evenly mixed batter, it’s best to use eggs and pumpkin puree that are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly, creating a more uniform and tender crumb.
• Adjust Pumpkin Pie Spice to Taste: The amount of pumpkin pie spice is a recommendation. Feel free to adjust it based on your preference for stronger or milder spice flavors. If your spice cake mix already has a very robust flavor, you might even choose to omit the extra spice entirely. Taste the batter (before adding eggs, of course, or just a tiny bit of the pumpkin/spice mix) if you’re unsure.
• Do Not Omit the Glaze: I cannot stress this enough! The maple glaze is a game-changer. It adds an incredible layer of sweetness, moisture, and a delightful sticky texture that truly takes this pumpkin bread from good to absolutely phenomenal. Its warm, sweet notes complement the pumpkin perfectly.
• Careful Not to Over-Mix the Batter: Once you add the dry cake mix, mix only until the ingredients are *just combined*. Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense, and rubbery bread texture. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable and actually desirable for a tender crumb.

Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Freezing Instructions

This easy pumpkin bread is perfect for making ahead and stores wonderfully, making it an ideal choice for holiday entertaining or meal prepping throughout the week.

• Make Ahead: This is an excellent bread to prepare in advance. Once baked and completely cooled, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes exceptionally well for longer storage.
• Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to enjoy it within a couple of days, store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container or a large zip-top bag at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for 2-3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: To extend its freshness, place the cooled bread in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-5 days. The cold temperature will help preserve its moisture and flavor.
• Freeze for Extended Enjoyment: For long-term storage, pumpkin bread freezes beautifully. Once cooled, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight, or at room temperature for a few hours. You can even warm individual slices slightly in the microwave or toaster oven for that freshly baked feel.

More Irresistible Pumpkin Desserts to Try

If you can’t get enough of pumpkin, here are more delightful recipes to satisfy your cravings:

• Easy Pumpkin Donuts (With Cake Mix): Fluffy, spiced donuts made simple with a cake mix.
• Easy Pumpkin Truffles: Bite-sized balls of pumpkin-spiced goodness.
• Easy Pumpkin Cake (With Cake Mix): Another fantastic cake mix creation, perfect for celebrations.
• Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: A classic fall dessert, soft and topped with tangy cream cheese.
• Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust: A creamy, spiced cheesecake with a flavorful crunchy crust.

Recipe Card

This super moist, easy pumpkin bread recipe with maple glaze is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Fall. Its straightforward preparation, thanks to the cake mix shortcut, means you can whip up this comforting treat anytime the craving strikes. The rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and the sweet, glistening maple glaze create an unforgettable experience that will have everyone asking for more. Perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holidays or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a crisp autumn morning, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a cherished part of your seasonal baking traditions. Happy baking!