The Perfect Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf (Copycat Recipe)
Estimated reading time: 7-9 minutes | Prep time: 15 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Incredibly Moist & Tender: This recipe uses oil and pure pumpkin puree to create an ultra-moist crumb that stays soft for days, just like the original coffee shop version.
- Perfectly Spiced Flavor: A warm, aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves delivers that quintessential cozy fall flavor in every single bite.
- Beginner-Friendly Recipe: With simple steps and no special equipment needed, this is a straightforward, from-scratch recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Freezer-Friendly & Make-Ahead: This loaf freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weekdays, holiday gatherings, or an easy family-friendly dessert.
- Versatile Serving Options: Delicious on its own with a cup of coffee, or elevate it with a smear of cream cheese, a pat of butter, or a drizzle of warm honey.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the arrival of fall, and for many of us, that means craving a warm, spiced slice of the famous Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf. This simple recipe brings that beloved coffee shop treat right into your kitchen, delivering an incredibly moist, tender, and flavor-packed loaf without the coffee shop price tag. This homemade version is even better, made from scratch with simple ingredients, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of autumn spices. It’s the perfect companion for your morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or a delightful family-friendly dessert.
What makes this copycat recipe truly special is its perfect texture. By using vegetable oil and pure pumpkin puree, we ensure the crumb is unbelievably moist and stays that way for days. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates a deep, warming spice profile that is perfectly balanced—never overwhelming. Topped with crunchy pepitas (pumpkin seeds), each slice offers a wonderful contrast in texture. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your fall baking journey, this easy pumpkin loaf recipe is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite you’ll make year after year.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Using high-quality ingredients is the secret to achieving that authentic coffee-shop flavor and the perfect moist texture for this Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf. Here’s exactly what you’ll need.
For the Pumpkin Loaf
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 2/3 cups (200g) provides the main structure for the loaf.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon helps the loaf rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon enhances all the other flavors.
- Ground Spices: 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. This combination creates the classic warm spice flavor.
- Large Eggs: 2 large eggs, brought to room temperature for better mixing.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups (300g) provides sweetness and contributes to the moist texture.
- Vegetable Oil: 1/2 cup (120ml) is the key to an ultra-moist loaf that doesn’t dry out. Any neutral oil works.
- Pure Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup (245g) of 100% pure pumpkin puree. Be sure not to use pumpkin pie filling, which is already sweetened and spiced.
For the Topping
- Raw Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): 1/4 cup (35g) for a crunchy, delicious topping.
Essential Equipment
- 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan
- Large and medium mixing bowls
- Whisk and a silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper for easy removal
- Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect homemade pumpkin loaf from scratch.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter. For easy removal later, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the long sides to use as handles.
- Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Whisk them together until they are well combined. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout the loaf.
- Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients. In a separate large bowl, whisk the two room-temperature eggs until they are lightly beaten. Add the granulated sugar and vegetable oil, and whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth, pale, and well-combined.
- Step 4: Incorporate the Pumpkin. Add the pure pumpkin puree to the wet ingredient mixture. Whisk until it is fully incorporated and the batter has a uniform, smooth consistency. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to make sure everything is mixed in.
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures. Gently pour the dry ingredients into the large bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small streaks of flour are perfectly fine. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
- Step 6: Fill the Loaf Pan. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use the spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Sprinkle the raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) evenly over the top of the batter.
- Step 7: Bake to Perfection. Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or wooden skewer into the center of the loaf. It’s ready when the skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter.
- Step 8: Cool Completely Before Slicing. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper handles to lift the loaf out of the pan. Place it directly on the wire rack to cool completely. This final step is crucial for clean slices!
Baking Tips, Variations & Substitutions
Pro Tips for the Perfect Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf
- Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Always double-check your can to ensure you are using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which will make your loaf overly sweet and alter the flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: This is the most important tip for a tender crumb. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold them together gently with a spatula only until you no longer see large streaks of flour. Overmixing develops gluten, which leads to a tough, rubbery loaf.
- Room Temperature Ingredients Matter: Using room temperature eggs is key. They mix more evenly into the batter, creating a uniform texture and helping the loaf rise properly.
- Patience is a Virtue (Let it Cool!): It is incredibly tempting to slice into the loaf while it’s warm, but you must resist. A warm loaf is fragile and will crumble. Allowing it to cool completely lets the structure set, ensuring you get clean, beautiful slices every time.
Easy Variations You Can Try
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips with the dry ingredients for a decadent chocolate-pumpkin combination.
- Include Nuts: For extra crunch and nutty flavor, add 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Whisk together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the completely cooled loaf.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can make this loaf gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
How to Serve & Store Your Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf
This pumpkin loaf is absolutely delicious served on its own, either at room temperature or gently warmed in the microwave for a few seconds. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve a slice with a smear of softened butter, tangy cream cheese, or a drizzle of maple syrup. It pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a chai latte, or a simple cup of tea for the ultimate cozy treat.
To store your delicious pumpkin loaf, allow it to cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. This loaf also freezes exceptionally well. Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature before enjoying.
Watch: How to Make It
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this pumpkin loaf?
Absolutely. This loaf freezes wonderfully. You can freeze the entire loaf or individual slices. For best results, wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap and then in a layer of aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
While you can slightly reduce the sugar by about 1/4 cup (50g), be aware that it will change the final result. Sugar does more than add sweetness; it is crucial for creating the loaf’s moist and tender texture. Reducing it too much can lead to a drier, less flavorful loaf.
Can I use melted butter instead of oil?
Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter for the vegetable oil. However, using oil is what gives this Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf its signature super-moist crumb that stays soft for days, so we highly recommend sticking with oil for the most authentic result.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a gluten-free diet. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture may be slightly different, and baking time could vary, so keep an eye on it.
