There's pumpkin bread, and then there's Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread. This isn't just a recipe; it's a piece of culinary heritage. Hailing from the rugged coast of Maine, this loaf is the stuff of legend—known for its impossibly moist, almost pudding-like crumb, its deep spice flavor, and its signature dark, crackly top. One bite transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg on a crisp autumn day.

What sets it apart? The magic lies in its simplicity and its generous use of pumpkin and oil, which guarantee a loaf that stays tender for days. This is a "make two loaves" recipe for a very good reason: one to devour immediately with your family, and one to wrap up and gift to a lucky friend or neighbor.

Get ready to bake the only pumpkin bread recipe you'll ever need.

Why This Recipe is a New England Classic

Unbeatable Moisture: The high ratio of pumpkin puree and oil creates an incredibly tender, dense, and moist loaf that never dries out.
Deep, Warm Spice: A classic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves delivers that quintessential fall flavor in every single bite.
One-Bowl Simplicity: No creaming, no fuss. You can mix the entire batter by hand in one bowl with a whisk and a spatula.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly: This bread tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully, making it perfect for holiday prep.