Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is the ultimate fall-inspired loaf. This recipe takes traditional pumpkin bread to a new level by incorporating nutty brown butter, warm spices, and melty chocolate chips. The combination creates a deeply flavorful, moist, and aromatic bread that works well for breakfast, dessert, or gifting. This recipe also ranks well for high-value keywords such as “pumpkin bread recipe,” “fall baking,” “moist pumpkin loaf,” and “brown butter desserts,” making it ideal for Google SEO and ad earnings.

Whether you want a comforting treat or a crowd-pleasing baked good for holidays, this pumpkin bread delivers in every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the entire loaf
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Extra moist texture from pumpkin and brown butter
• Loaded with chocolate chips for added sweetness
• Freezes exceptionally well
• Easy one-bowl mixing method
• Perfect for fall gatherings, brunches, and holiday gifting
• No mixer required

Ingredients Breakdown

• Brown Butter – Adds a toasted, caramel-like depth that balances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
• 100% Pure Pumpkin – Brings moisture, color, and earthy pumpkin flavor; use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Eggs – Provide structure and help the loaf rise.
• Water – Keeps the batter smooth and adds moisture.
• Sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to browning and tenderness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances fall flavors and complements pumpkin and chocolate.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the base and gives the loaf a soft, sturdy texture.
• Baking Soda – Leavens the batter, giving the bread lift and fluffiness.
• Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and deepens the pumpkin and spice flavors.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – A warm mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that gives classic fall flavor.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Add rich chocolate pockets; extra on top creates a bakery-style finish.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a light-colored pan when browning butter to keep track of color changes.
• Brown the butter slowly to avoid burning. Once golden, remove from heat immediately.
• Allow the butter to cool before adding it to the batter so it doesn’t scramble the eggs.
• Avoid overmixing the batter. Stir until the dry ingredients disappear, and then stop.
• Press a few chocolate chips into the top for a polished look.
• Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.
• For perfectly sliced bread, let the loaf cool completely before cutting.
• Store leftover slices in an airtight container to maintain maximum moisture.

Variations and Customizations

Add-ins

• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• White chocolate chips
• Toffee bits
• Dried cranberries

Flavor Upgrades

• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for extra spice
• Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup for deeper sweetness
• Replace some of the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks

Texture Tweaks

• For a denser loaf, reduce water by 1–2 tablespoons
• For extra moisture, add 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt

Pairing Suggestions

Beverages

• Hot coffee or espresso
• Chai tea
• Spiced cider
• Vanilla latte

Serving Ideas

• Spread with warm butter
• Drizzle with maple glaze
• Serve with whipped cream cheese
• Toast slices and top with honey

Storage Instructions

• Store cooled bread at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week for extended freshness.
• Freeze whole or sliced: wrap tightly in two layers of plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 3 months.
• Thaw bread inside the wrapping to prevent moisture loss.

Popular Questions

Why brown the butter?

Browning butter adds depth, richness, and a toasted flavor that enhances pumpkin bread significantly.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling?

No. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which would alter the recipe.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.

Should I use chocolate chips or chunks?

Both work well. Chips stay more uniform, while chunks create bigger pockets of melted chocolate.