Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine with a bread that's not just a recipe, but a culinary adventure! This Spicy Raisin Walnut Pumpkin Bread is a mind-blowing fusion of sweet, nutty, and surprisingly spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests begging for more. Imagine a moist, aromatic loaf that combines the warmth of pumpkin, the crunch of walnuts, the sweetness of raisins, and a unexpected kick of cayenne pepper - this isn't just bread, this is an experience that will redefine your baking expectations!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk to combine and ensure even distribution of spices.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well incorporated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Tips
- Use fresh spices for maximum flavor intensity - old spices can make your bread taste dull.
- Don't overmix the batter; this can lead to a tough, dense bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- For extra moisture, consider soaking raisins in warm water or rum for 10-15 minutes before adding to the batter.
- Check your bread's doneness by inserting a toothpick - a few moist crumbs are perfect, but wet batter means it needs more time.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling and help flavors meld together.
- For a gourmet touch, toast the walnuts before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
