If you adore the warmth of pumpkin spice baked goods and crave a cozy, sweet treat perfect for fall mornings or afternoon tea, you are going to fall in love with these Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves. Each bite reveals tender, moist pumpkin bread infused with aromatic pumpkin pie spices, accented by a delightful swirl of cinnamon sugar that adds just the right touch of sweetness and texture. These mini loaves are not only charming but they bake up flawlessly every time, making them a go-to recipe to share with friends and family during the season.

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in building flavor and texture. From the richness of pumpkin to the mellow sweetness of both brown and granulated sugars, every component is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves experience.

1 large egg: Provides structure and richness, binding the ingredients together flawlessly.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a clean sweetness and helps with the crumb’s lightness.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings moistness and a subtle molasses depth to the flavor.
1/2 cup pure canned pumpkin: The star ingredient offering moisture, softness, and that iconic autumn flavor.
1/4 cup canola oil: Keeps the bread tender without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a warm, fragrant note that complements spices.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and body to the loaves.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and ensures a light texture.
1/8 teaspoon baking soda: Contributes to leavening and balances acidity from the pumpkin and brown sugar.
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A cozy blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves that defines the pumpkin bread’s signature warmth.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop just right.
2 to 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar: A sweet and spicy swirl topping made from 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon mixed with 1 tablespoon sugar that creates a delightful texture contrast.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and position the oven rack in the middle for even baking. Grease your mini loaf pans lightly and line them with parchment paper slings that hang over the edges, which will make it a breeze to lift out the loaves once baked. If you choose to use a brownie pan instead, line 5 wells with parchment strips just as carefully.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until it becomes smooth and well blended. This mixture forms the moist and flavorful base of your bread.

Step 3: Blend in the Dry Ingredients

Using a fine mesh strainer, sift or sprinkle the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt over the wet ingredients. Whisk gently until all the dry bits disappear and you have a uniform, spiced batter. This method prevents lumps and ensures your mini loaves bake up with a tender, delicate crumb.

Step 4: Fill Pans and Add the Cinnamon Swirl

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Then, generously sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the tops. Using a toothpick or knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the top layer of batter—this creates that irresistible cinnamon swirl that gives the bread its name and delightful texture contrast.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 23 minutes if using a brownie pan, or 28 to 30 minutes if baking in mini loaf pans. The loaves are done when a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. Let the mini loaves cool in their pans on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment sling to cool completely. This step ensures they keep their shape and don’t become soggy.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Garnishes

These mini loaves are delicious on their own, but you can really elevate them with a light spread of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey. For extra indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a charming finishing touch that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

Serve the Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves alongside a warm cup of spiced chai, coffee, or hot apple cider to complement the cozy flavors. A bowl of seasonal fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful autumn-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

These mini loaves make a perfect gift or party favor too! Wrap each loaf individually in parchment tied with twine and a sprig of cinnamon or rosemary. Alternatively, slice and layer them with cream cheese or mascarpone and fresh berries for a mini layered dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and moist without drying out.

Freezing

These mini loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat the loaves in a 300°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds. This quick step revives their fresh-from-the-oven charm.

FAQs

Can I substitute the oil with butter in the Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves?

Absolutely! Melted butter can be used instead of oil for a richer flavor, but it might slightly change the texture to be a bit denser.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture might be a little different but still delicious.

Can I make these without cinnamon sugar swirl?

While the cinnamon sugar swirl is what makes these mini loaves special, you can omit it if needed. Just know that you’ll miss that crisp, sweet layer on top.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s wet with batter, bake a few minutes longer.

Can I double the recipe to bake full-sized loaves?

You can, but you will need to extend the baking time significantly and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Mini loaves bake faster and give that charming individual portion size.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves truly capture the heart of fall in every bite. They’re simple to make, bursting with warm spices and pumpkin goodness, and perfectly sized for sharing or savoring solo. I encourage you to whip up a batch and enjoy this delightful treat with your favorite warm drink — it’s one recipe that feels like a hug in food form.