Pumpkin Spice Artisan Bread

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Artisan Bread

Introduction

Celebrate the arrival of fall with Homemade Pumpkin Spice Artisan Bread, a delightful blend of pumpkin puree and warming spices that perfectly encapsulate the essence of autumn. This bread, with its crusty exterior and soft, flavorful interior, pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or as a comforting addition to any autumn meal. If you’d like to receive this recipe by email, don’t forget to subscribe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This artisan bread is an absolute favorite for so many reasons! The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a flavorful, aromatic loaf that is simple to prepare. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe’s straightforward instructions make it accessible. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with family, and the recipe is easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or seeds.

Ingredients

– 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: pumpkin seeds for topping

Necessary Tools

– Large mixing bowl
– Wooden spoon
– Dutch oven (with lid)
– Whisk
– Kitchen towel
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wire rack

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

Feel free to experiment by swapping some spices or adding new ingredients. You could use squash puree instead of pumpkin, or try adding a hint of cardamom. For a nutty touch, toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans. Pumpkin seeds make a great topping too, adding crunch and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the flour, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a large bowl using a whisk.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, warm water, sugar, and olive oil.
3. Gradually incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for approximately 3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.
6. Once the dough is ready, lightly flour a surface and transfer the dough onto it. Shape it into a ball by folding it over itself a few times.
7. Carefully place the dough into the preheated Dutch oven. If desired, sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top.
8. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
10. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is a versatile side for many meals. Enjoy it toasted with butter, as a side for soups and stews, or even sliced for sandwiches filled with fall flavors like turkey and cranberry.

Pro Tips for Success

– Ensure your water is around 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
– Use a sharp knife or bread lame to score the top of the bread before baking for an appealing presentation.

Storing and Reheating

Store the bread in a sealed container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in an oven at 350°F until heated through.

Pumpkin Spice Artisan Bread

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