Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread : The Best Fall Loaf for Thanksgiving and Beyond

When the air turns crisp and cozy, there’s nothing like the aroma of Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread baking in the oven. This moist, spiced loaf perfectly captures everything we love about fall — the warmth of pumpkin, the tangy pop of cranberries, and the nutty crunch of pecans. It’s the ultimate comfort bake for the season, and a top contender for the best cranberry bread recipe you’ll ever make.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast bread, a Thanksgiving table addition, or a thoughtful edible gift, this recipe delivers. With its easy prep and bakery-style flavor, it’s no wonder this loaf has become a staple in many fall kitchens.

If you love cozy, seasonal bakes, you might also enjoy these autumn favorites like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl for more pumpkin perfection.

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Why You’ll Love This Fall Cranberry Bread Recipe

This loaf combines the best of fall flavors in one irresistible package. It’s moist, fragrant, and bursting with texture — chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a soft, spiced pumpkin crumb.

Here’s why it’s a seasonal favorite:

• It’s an easy cranberry bread that comes together in one bowl.
• Perfectly moist and flavorful, never dry or crumbly.
• Ideal for Thanksgiving quick breads or festive breakfast spreads.
• Freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead recipe for busy holidays.
• Customizable: add orange zest, swap nuts, or drizzle with glaze for a bakery finish.

If you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, pair it with comforting dishes like Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese or Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans.

Ingredients for the Best Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this show-stopping loaf:

• 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon cloves
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (100g) fresh or dried cranberries
• ¾ cup (75g) chopped pecans
• Optional glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla

If you’re in a fall baking mood, try these other spiced delights like Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread or Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Loaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves).

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together sugars, oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and buttermilk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Add-Ins
Gently fold in cranberries and chopped pecans. The batter will be thick and fragrant with pumpkin spice goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle with glaze if desired.

If you’re a fan of soft, spiced desserts, you’ll also love the fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls — a perfect companion to your morning coffee.

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Recommended Kitchen Equipment for Fall Baking

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Optional: Hand mixer for extra-smooth batter

For easy cleanup and more baking inspiration, try these no-fuss treats like Pumpkin Twists or Pumpkin Truffles.

Tips for Moist and Flavorful Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

1. Use real pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices.
2. Don’t overmix the batter. Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
3. Use buttermilk or yogurt. It adds moisture and tang, ensuring a soft loaf.
4. Add a touch of orange zest. It brightens the flavor and complements cranberries beautifully.
5. For extra crunch, toast your pecans before adding them to the batter.

Want more baking secrets? Try these Cheesy Zucchini Bread tips for achieving the perfect crumb texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Quick Breads

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your loaf — pumpkin bread can dry out quickly if left too long.
• Cutting too soon: Allow your bread to cool completely to set properly.
• Using cold ingredients: Room-temperature eggs and milk blend better for a smooth batter.
• Skipping parchment paper: It ensures easy removal and a beautiful loaf shape.

For another foolproof fall bake, check out this Vanilla Pudding Pumpkin Bread — it’s rich, moist, and bakes up beautifully every time.

Variations: From Thanksgiving Loaf to Easy Cranberry Sweet Bread

This Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread is endlessly customizable:

• Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans or replace with white chocolate chips.
• Glazed Holiday Bread: Drizzle with orange glaze and top with sugared cranberries.
• Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini pans for easy gifting.
• Cranberry Sweet Bread: Add a handful of brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking.

If you like creating festive breads, you’ll also enjoy Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Butter Bread — it’s a swirl of fall flavor perfection.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

This loaf is delicious on its own, but you can also:

• Serve it warm with whipped butter or cream cheese spread.
• Pair it with coffee or Lavender Lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a maple glaze for presentation.
• Slice it and include it on a fall-themed dessert board alongside Apple Crisp and Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Cranberry Pumpkin Bread

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that just-baked freshness.

If you’re planning ahead for Thanksgiving, you can bake this bread early and store it in the freezer until the big day.

Pairings: Perfect Drinks and Fall Desserts to Serve With It

Complement your pumpkin loaf with cozy beverages and desserts:

• A steaming mug of Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew.
• Creamy Fruit Dip with apple slices.
• Flaky Apple Fritter Donuts.
• Sweet Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles.

These pairings create a dessert spread that’s warm, comforting, and full of fall flair.

How to Turn This Into the Best Thanksgiving Quick Bread Gift

If you love homemade gifts, this bread is a great choice.

• Bake in mini loaf pans and wrap in parchment paper with twine.
• Add a personalized tag and a small jar of Pumpkin Fluff Dip.
• Pair with a bag of coffee or a tea sampler for a cozy seasonal gift basket.

This loaf’s rich flavor and beautiful texture make it the best pumpkin loaf for holiday gifting.

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FAQs About Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Add them straight from the freezer to prevent excess moisture.

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?
Absolutely — any toasted nut adds a lovely crunch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

What’s the best way to make it extra moist?
Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.

Can I turn this into muffins?
Yes! Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes in a muffin tin.

Final Thoughts + Share & Subscribe CTA

This Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread is everything fall baking should be — easy, aromatic, and irresistibly good. Perfect as a breakfast treat, dessert loaf, or Thanksgiving centerpiece, it’s bound to become a family favorite year after year.

If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more cozy fall recipes like Pumpkin Twists, Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, and Apple Crisp with Oatmeal.

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