If you’re in search of the coziest, most aromatic fall bake, let me introduce you to Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread. Imagine the warmth of pumpkin, golden maple syrup, and all the classic chai spices in one irresistibly moist loaf, topped with a sunshine-bright maple glaze. Whether you’re sharing it over morning coffee or sneaking slices for a midnight treat, this is the loaf that will make you wish autumn lasted forever.

Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create irresistible flavor. Each one has a special job, whether it’s giving the bread its velvety crumb or infusing it with fall’s finest spices. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Pumpkin Purée: Provides moisture and that classic autumnal flavor, ensuring the bread is never dry.
Butter (melted): Delivers richness and a tender crumb that just melts in your mouth.
Greek Yogurt: Adds tang and keeps the bread light and fluffy—plus, a little extra protein!
Eggs: Bind everything together and help the loaf rise beautifully.
Light Brown Sugar (or Coconut Sugar): Offers deep caramel notes and pairs perfectly with the pumpkin and spices.
Maple Syrup: The star sweetener, bringing a delicate natural sweetness and unmistakable autumn flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates all the flavors and adds an inviting aroma.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of your bread—use a gluten-free blend if needed!
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Team up to lift the loaf so it’s perfectly fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch sharpens every spice and sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon, Cardamom, Ginger, Allspice, Cloves: This blend of chai spices is what gives the loaf its soul-warming, spiced kick.
Powdered Sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet topping that sets perfectly.
Milk (for glaze): Thins out the glaze to the ideal silky consistency.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready and waiting. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging over the edges. This little trick guarantees that your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread pops out easily and in one gorgeous piece.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a generous mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin purée, Greek yogurt, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Take your time here—mix until you have a beautifully smooth and glossy batter that smells divine already.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together your flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and, most importantly, all those lovely chai spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, and cloves. This is where the signature flavor of Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is born!

Step 4: Make the Batter

Working gently, fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Don’t aim for absolute perfection here—a few lumps are perfectly fine. The less you stir, the more tender your loaf will be, so take it easy.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top for even baking. Slide it into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check with a toothpick: when it comes out clean, you’re done! If you notice the top browning too fast, cover loosely with foil and carry on baking.

Step 6: Cool the Bread

Let your bread rest in the pan on a wire rack. This patience pays off—a fully-cooled loaf slices beautifully and soaks in all that maple-chai magic.

Step 7: Make the Maple Glaze

While the loaf cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and just enough milk to form a pourable glaze. Adjust with extra milk, a drop at a time, until it’s silky but not too runny.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is completely cool, drizzle over that gorgeous maple glaze for a picture-perfect finish. Give it about 10 minutes to set, then slice and serve. Pure autumn bliss!

How to Serve

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts across the sticky maple glaze for a delightful crunch. For a bit of extra fall flair, try a light dusting of cinnamon or even thin strips of candied ginger on top.

Side Dishes

This bread makes the best companion to a creamy latte or a simple mug of black tea, especially with a hint of chai. Pair it with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a cozy brunch, or serve alongside a plate of scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch buffet, slice the loaf thick and arrange the pieces on a wooden board with extra glaze in a little bowl for dipping. Or, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter for mini-versions to serve as sweet tea party treats. Warm individual slices in a toaster oven and top with a light smear of cream cheese for a sophisticated dessert snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread fresh by storing cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The spices actually deepen in flavor over the next day or two, so don’t be afraid to bake ahead!

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then pop into a freezer bag. It’ll stay perfect for up to three months—just be sure to glaze after thawing if you’re freezing the whole loaf.

Reheating

Thaw slices overnight in the fridge or on the counter. For that fresh-baked feel, reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast gently in a toaster oven. Add a spoonful of extra glaze or a pat of butter if you’re feeling indulgent!

FAQs

Can I make Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter, swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based version, and replace the eggs with flax eggs. The loaf comes out just as moist and flavorful—nobody will miss the dairy or eggs.

What can I use instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free baking?

A 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, and the results will still be perfectly soft and tender.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to the batter?

Definitely! Stir in a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or even chocolate chips to the batter before baking. These add wonderful texture and an extra layer of flavor to your Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Test the center with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly but the center isn’t set, tent the loaf with foil and continue baking until it’s just right.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans side by side. If you’re feeling generous, wrap up a loaf to share with a friend—they’ll love you for it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving cozy vibes and fragrant, bakery-style treats at home, make this Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread as soon as possible. Every slice is bursting with nostalgic autumn spice and sweet maple goodness. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen, too—don’t wait for fall to give it a try!