Pumpkin Shaped Bread Loaf Recipe
Pumpkin-shaped bread is a delightful and fun recipe that brings an autumn touch to your table. It’s not only visually appealing but also deliciously soft and slightly sweet. This bread can be a charming centerpiece for your fall gatherings or a warm addition to a cozy meal at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making pumpkin-shaped bread is a great way to celebrate the season. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to play with your food and impress your family and friends. The combination of pumpkin purée and warm spices creates a comforting flavor that is perfect for fall. Plus, it’s a fun activity that can be enjoyed by bakers of all ages!
How to Make Pumpkin Shaped Bread Loaf
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 2 packets (4 ½ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons organic sugar
- ¼ cup pumpkin purée (use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix)
- ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons warm nondairy milk (such as Ripple)
- 1 cinnamon stick for garnish
- 1 tablespoon nondairy milk
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin purée
- 4 pieces of baker’s twine, each 15 to 20 inches long
- Parchment paper
Directions:
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and organic sugar. Mix together with a spoon.
- Add the instant yeast packets and mix in with a wooden spoon to evenly distribute.
- Attach the mixing paddle to the stand mixer. Add the pumpkin purée and begin mixing slowly while gradually pouring in the warm nondairy milk. Continue mixing until the dough forms shaggy pieces.
- Replace the mixing paddle with the dough hook. Knead the dough on low speed for 10 minutes until it becomes soft, smooth, and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball.
- Place the dough ball in a large bowl and cover it with a dish towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Cut 4 pieces of baker’s twine, each about 15 to 20 inches long.
- In a small bowl, combine the nondairy milk and pumpkin purée to make the pumpkin wash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Once risen, gently press the air out of the dough and shape it into a smooth ball. Use a silicone brush to paint the top of the dough with the pumpkin wash for a lovely glaze.
- Cross two pieces of twine in the middle and lay the other two diagonally to create an 8-point star pattern. Place the dough, smooth side down, onto the center where the strings cross. Tie the strings around the dough loosely, allowing room for expansion during baking. Trim any excess twine.
- Use a paring knife to make small v-shaped cuts or other decorative designs on the dough’s surface to mimic pumpkin ridges.
- Line a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with parchment paper. Carefully place the dough inside and adjust the twine if needed.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Carefully remove the bread from the pot using oven mitts. Quickly remove the twine using scissors. Make a small X-shaped cut on the top of the bread and insert a cinnamon stick as a decorative topper. Allow the bread to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Pumpkin Shaped Bread Loaf
Serve this adorable pumpkin-shaped bread warm, perhaps with a spread of vegan butter or your favorite jam. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or as a side at dinner. You can also slice it and make tasty sandwiches!
How to Store Pumpkin Shaped Bread Loaf
To store your pumpkin-shaped bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. Just toast the slices when you want to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Shaped Bread Loaf
- Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Kneading the dough well is important to get the right texture.
- If you don’t have baker’s twine, you can shape the dough and bake it as a regular round loaf.
- Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for more flavor.
Variation
You can also add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for a delicious twist. For an even sweeter bread, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular milk instead of nondairy milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk if you do not need a nondairy option.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
3. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
You can mix and knead the dough by hand. Just be sure to knead it well until smooth and elastic.
Now you’re ready to bake your own pumpkin-shaped bread loaf! Enjoy the delightful process and the tasty results!
