Name: Delightful Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 805 min
Ingredients: 500 grams organic bread flour (Provides structure and texture); 300 grams water (Hydrates the dough); 100 grams sourdough starter (Leavening agent); 10 grams sea salt (Enhances flavor); 40 grams maple syrup (Adds sweetness); 30 grams pumpkin puree, strained (Infuses moisture); 1 small apple fresh, minced (Adds natural sweetness); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (Warming spice); 3 Tablespoons pecans, crushed (For added crunch)

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there’s a certain magic that fills our kitchens, transporting us to sun-kissed orchards and golden pumpkin patches. This Sourdough Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans captures that essence, blending the rich flavors of fall into a rustic loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. One of the best parts? It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Not to mention, the delightful aroma that wafts through your space as it bakes will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Ready to fill your home with some autumn cheer? Let’s get started on this seasonal masterpiece that’s destined to become a cherished favorite!

Why is this bread a must-bake?

Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, this Pumpkin Apple Bread fills your home with the warm, inviting scents of cinnamon and fresh apples, creating a comforting atmosphere.

Unique flavor blend: Combining sweet pumpkin and fruity apples with crunchy pecans, each slice offers a burst of flavor that’s simply delightful.

Easy to make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers will find joy in crafting this artisan-style bread, bringing a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Versatile serving options: This bread shines whether served warm with butter, toasted for breakfast, or as a comforting side to soups and salads. Pair it with a warm cup of Homemade Pumpkin Spice for a cozy fall treat!

Health benefits: Packed with vitamins A and C from pumpkin and fiber from apples, this bread supports your wellness while satisfying your cravings.

Experience the magic of fall in every bite!

Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon Ingredients

• Get ready to create a warm, spiced delight that embodies the essence of autumn.

For the Bread

500 grams organic bread flour – This provides the structure and texture your bread needs for that perfect crumb.
300 grams water – Hydrates the dough, making it easier to achieve that perfect rise.
100 grams sourdough starter – Your leavening agent that adds a tangy flavor and irresistible texture.
10 grams sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor while regulating yeast activity for optimal fermentation.
40 grams maple syrup – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to complement the fall flavors.

For the Flavor

30 grams pumpkin puree, strained – Infuses moisture and brings a cozy pumpkin flavor; freshly roasted pumpkin can intensify this effect.
1 small apple, fresh, minced – Adds natural sweetness and moisture to your delicious loaf.
2 teaspoons cinnamon – The warming spice that weaves through the bread, enhancing the fall theme.
3 Tablespoons pecans, crushed – For added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that rounds out the recipe beautifully.

Embrace the spirit of autumn with this delightful Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans—all while filling your home with its warm and inviting aroma!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans

Step 1: Start the Sourdough Process
Begin your day by refreshing your sourdough starter, allowing it to become active. After a few hours, once it’s bubbly, you can start making your Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans. Make sure to plan for a total of about 8-12 hours of rise time for optimal flavor development in the dough.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 100 grams of your active sourdough starter with 500 grams of organic bread flour, 300 grams of water, and 40 grams of maple syrup. Mix these ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring all the flour is incorporated. This will be the base of your delicious bread, full of flavor and texture.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the mixture out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until you have a smooth and elastic dough. As you knead, you should feel it becoming more cohesive and stretchy. Once it reaches a uniform ball, place it back in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 45 minutes.

Step 4: Add Salt and Rest Again
After the initial rest, sprinkle 10 grams of sea salt over the dough. Knead it again for another 5 minutes to fully incorporate the salt, enhancing the flavor and controlling yeast activity. Following this, cover the bowl and let the dough rest for an additional 30 minutes to allow the gluten to develop further.

Step 5: Stretch and Fold
Misting a clean countertop with water (to prevent sticking), turn out the dough from the bowl. Gently stretch and fold the dough over itself a few times, creating layers and air pockets. This process helps build strength and structure, which is crucial for your Pumpkin Apple Bread. Let it rest for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Flavors
After the resting period, repeat the stretch and fold process, this time adding in your minced apple, cinnamon, crushed pecans, and 30 grams of pumpkin puree. Gently fold these flavorful ingredients into the dough, ensuring even distribution without overworking it. Allow the dough to rest again for 30 minutes.

Step 7: First Rise
Cover the dough again and let it rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the dough; it should become puffy and nearly double in size. This process enhances the flavors and ensures a light, airy crumb in your final Pumpkin Apple Bread.

Step 8: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it onto a lightly dusted surface. Shape it gently into a round loaf by tucking the edges under. Transfer the shaped dough into a floured proofing basket, seam side up. This will help it hold its shape during the final rise. Cover it with a damp cloth and allow it to rest.

Step 9: Cold Proof Overnight
For the best flavor and texture, cover the proofing basket with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge overnight, allowing 8-12 hours for the dough to develop fully. This longer fermentation time gives your Pumpkin Apple Bread a distinctive taste and a beautiful crust.

Step 10: Preheat the Oven
The next day, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C), placing a Dutch oven inside to heat up. This practice will create a steamy environment perfect for baking your bread, enhancing its crust and rise. Ensure the Dutch oven is thoroughly heated before proceeding to the next step.

Step 11: Prepare for Baking
Carefully turn the dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. With a sharp knife or a bread lame, score the top of your loaf. This step not only allows for controlled expansion while baking but also adds a lovely artisan touch to your Pumpkin Apple Bread.

Step 12: Bake the Bread
Using oven mitts, carefully transfer the scored dough along with the parchment into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover it with the lid and bake for 35 minutes. After this time, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).

Step 13: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. This rest period is essential as it allows the crumb to set and enhances the flavors of your Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Apple Bread

Room Temperature: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: While not recommended, you can refrigerate for up to a week to extend shelf life, but the bread may become denser and lose some moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive the bread’s warm, fresh-baked texture, toast slices directly from frozen or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What to Serve with Sourdough Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans

As you savor each slice of this cozy, aromatic loaf, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal to new comforting heights.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes complements the bread’s texture beautifully, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Savory Butternut Squash Soup: This soup’s earthy sweetness harmonizes perfectly with the bread’s flavors, creating a satisfying and hearty autumn meal.
Apple Cider Mimosas: Bright and bubbly, these drinks enhance the apple notes in your bread while adding a festive touch for gatherings.
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup mirror the sweetness of the bread and make a delicious side.
Cream Cheese Spread: A rich cream cheese spread elevates the bread, adding a tangy creaminess that enhances its sweetness.
Fresh Spinach Salad: Tossed with cranberries and nuts, this salad introduces a refreshing crunch and balances the bread’s warmth.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Complete the cozy experience with this seasonal favorite, infusing every bite of the bread with that anticipated autumn flavor.
Spiced Pear Compote: This sweet and tangy topping complements the bread’s ingredients, bringing a fruity brightness to each serving.
Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar provides a delightful contrast to the sweet bread, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Indulge in these pairings for an unforgettable meal that captures the heart of the season!

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the shaping steps, then cover and refrigerate the shaped loaf in a proofing basket overnight. This slow fermentation enhances the flavors and texture, making it just as delicious when baked. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and Dutch oven, turn out the dough, score it, and bake according to the instructions. This make-ahead method allows you to enjoy fresh, warm bread on your schedule, ensuring a delightful autumn treat!

Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this already scrumptious bread even more personal and unique!

Walnut Swap: Substitute crushed walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor that adds a rich depth. The contrast in flavor brings delightful surprises to each bite.
Honey Sweetener: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a floral sweetness that beautifully complements the pumpkin and apple flavors, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Spice it Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of warm spice that enriches this bread’s cozy essence, making it even more aromatic.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace the maple syrup with agave nectar or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option that still delivers a sweet touch.
Fresh Pumpkin: Using fresh, roasted pumpkin puree instead of canned lends a rich, robust pumpkin flavor that is unmatched, making each bite even more vibrant with autumn.
Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties, like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness, to find your perfect flavor balance.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a sweet, crunchy crust that will make your bread stand out, both in flavor and presentation.

Thinking of other dishes to enjoy alongside this enticing bread? Pair it well with some warm bowls of Carrot Apple Salad or alongside a slice of Apple Crumb Cake for an exceptional fall feast!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Apple Bread

Care for Your Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before use. A weak starter can lead to dense Pumpkin Apple Bread.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and water. Too much flour can make the bread dry.
Monitor Rise Time: Keep an eye on your dough’s rise. Warmer kitchens will speed up fermentation, while cooler spaces may require additional time for the best flavor development.
Incorporate Fillings Early: Add pumpkin puree, apple, pecans, and cinnamon during the stretching process to maintain dough integrity. This ensures flavor is evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Rest and Cool: Allow the baked bread to cool completely before slicing. This step helps set the texture and flavor, making each bite of your Pumpkin Apple Bread more enjoyable.

Pumpkin Apple Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their sweetness and tart balance in the bread. Look for apples without bruises or dark spots, as these may indicate overripeness. Fresh, bright-colored apples will give you the best flavor and texture!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Apple Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it. It will maintain the best quality for about 3 months in the freezer.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Apple Bread? How do I do it?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! After the bread has completely cooled, slice it into individual portions for ease of use. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the bread fresh. Just thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to an inactive sourdough starter. Make sure your starter is bubbly and ripe before using it. Another tip: check the temperature of your environment; too cold can slow fermentation. If the dough is really dense, try giving it more time to rise, up to 4 hours, or incorporate it into a warm area for a boost!

Is this bread suitable for vegetarians and those with nut allergies?
Yes, this bread is suitable for vegetarians! If you have nut allergies, you can absolutely leave out the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Just ensure you check any additional ingredients for potential allergens.