With the holidays just around the corner, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air. One recipe that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas baking in the USA is the delicious Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. This delightful treat combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate chips, making it a cozy and comforting addition to any holiday gathering or a perfect homemade gift for friends and family.
**Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the pumpkin puree and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top of the batter.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once completely cooled, slice and serve the bread either at room temperature or slightly warmed for an extra cozy touch.
This Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is a wonderful sweet treat that will fill your home with the scents of the season. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or share it with loved ones during festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as chopped nuts or dried fruits to make it your own. Give this recipe a try and let the joy of Christmas baking warm your heart and home!
