Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves: The Perfect Fall Treat

If you’re craving a warm, cozy, fall-inspired baked good that’s quick to make and full of flavor, Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves are your answer. These charming mini loaves deliver everything you love about pumpkin season — rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl baked into a crisp top. Ideal for gifting, freezing, or savoring one slice at a time, this small batch recipe is not only simple but versatile, making it the perfect go-to for every baker.

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Moist, Flavorful, and Perfectly Sized for Sharing

What makes these Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves stand out is their incredibly moist texture and depth of flavor. Made with real pumpkin puree and a blend of fall spices, these loaves stay soft and tender for days. The cinnamon swirl on top adds an irresistible crunch, making each bite both sweet and spiced. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, these small loaves are just the right size.

Not only are they a delicious seasonal bake, but they also double as thoughtful homemade gifts — especially around holidays or special gatherings.

Ingredients That Make the Magic FOR Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and deep autumn flavor
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the pumpkin
Brown Sugar: Adds molasses depth and enhances the moist texture
Egg: Binds the ingredients and helps the bread rise
Canola Oil: Keeps the crumb tender without overpowering flavor
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the warm spice notes
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the bread
Baking Powder: Leavens the bread for a soft, risen loaf
Baking Soda: Works with the acid in pumpkin to improve lift
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Delivers that classic fall spice profile
Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the spices
Cinnamon Sugar: Swirled on top for a crunchy, aromatic finish

Smart Swaps & Substitutions

Can’t find a certain ingredient? Need to tweak for dietary preferences? Try these alternatives:

Pumpkin Puree: Use mashed sweet potato or butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.
Canola Oil: Swap for melted coconut oil, avocado oil, or even applesauce (for a lower-fat version).
Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend — several readers report success with this substitution.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you’re out, mix ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to taste.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar works well for a refined sugar-free version.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and prepare your mini loaf pans with parchment paper slings and a light grease.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt directly into the wet mixture using a mesh strainer to remove clumps.
  4. Combine: Stir until no flour streaks remain and the batter is smooth.
  5. Pour and Swirl: Evenly divide the batter into prepared pans. Generously sprinkle cinnamon sugar over each. Swirl gently with a toothpick — don’t fully mix it in.
  6. Bake:
    • Mini loaf pans: Bake for 28–30 minutes
    • Muffin pans: 20–23 minutes
    • Brownie pan (for 5 mini squares): 20–23 minutes
    Check for doneness using a toothpick inserted into the center — it should come out mostly clean.
  7. Cool: Let cool in pans for 10–15 minutes, then lift out using parchment sling and cool completely on a wire rack.
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Pro Tips to Perfect Your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Don’t Overmix: Over-stirring can make the bread dense. Mix just until combined.
Use Libby’s Pumpkin: For consistent results, Libby’s has the right moisture level and texture.
Generous Swirl: Use plenty of cinnamon sugar on top — it adds amazing flavor and crunch.
Pan Prep is Key: Don’t skip the parchment sling! It helps lift the mini loaves out cleanly.
Cool Before Slicing: The loaves will slice better and maintain structure if cooled completely.

Delicious Pairings & Creative Variations

Serve your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte. These are excellent at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.

Topping Ideas:
• Add a streusel topping before baking for a bakery-style finish
• Drizzle with cream cheese glaze for a dessert-like touch

Variations:
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free 1:1 blend
Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
Chocolate Lover’s: Add chocolate chips for a pumpkin-chocolate fusion
Health Boost: Sub part of the flour for oat flour, and use applesauce instead of oil

Make-Ahead Tip: These loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic, place in a zip-top freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months.

A Seasonal Classic That’s More Than Just Fall

Although perfect for autumn, these Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves are so good, you’ll crave them year-round. The recipe has become a beloved staple for small households, gift-giving, and even birthdays — readers have turned this into cakes and muffin versions for every occasion.

This bread is also a smart way to use leftover pumpkin puree from other recipes. Pair it with your favorite fall desserts or make a batch just because your freezer revealed a hidden stash of canned pumpkin — it’s that irresistible.

A Recipe Worth Repeating

Whether you’re savoring the comforting warmth of fall spices or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves deliver on every front — flavor, texture, ease, and versatility. These little loaves prove that good things come in small packages. With minimal prep and ingredients likely already in your pantry, they’re a cozy, crave-worthy treat you’ll return to all year long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe to make a full-sized loaf?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make one standard 9×5-inch loaf. Begin checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. The texture remains moist and flavorful, and the cinnamon swirl still bakes beautifully on top.

How do I store leftover pumpkin bread?

Store your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5–7 days. For longer storage, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves gluten-free?

Absolutely! Several readers have had success using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The recipe also has a tested almond flour version available, though adjustments may be needed for baking time and texture.

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Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves


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  • Author: Anna
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 mini loaves or 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread Mini Loaves are packed with real pumpkin, cozy fall spices, and topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar swirl. Moist, flavorful, and quick to make, they’re perfect for gifting, snacking, or enjoying with coffee. This small batch recipe is easy to customize and bakes in under 45 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, light or dark
  • ½ cup pure canned pumpkin
  • ¼ cup canola oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (3/4 tsp cinnamon for every 1 tbsp sugar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare mini loaf pans with parchment and light grease.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt over the wet ingredients. Mix until no dry streaks remain.
  4. Evenly portion the batter into prepared pans. Generously sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top and lightly swirl with a toothpick.
  5. Bake for 28–30 minutes (mini loaf pans), or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
  6. Cool in pans for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • This is a small batch recipe. Double it for a full-sized 9×5 loaf (check at 50 mins).
  • For muffins, bake for 20–23 minutes; for brownie pans, use 5 wells and bake 20–23 minutes.
  • Use only pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Wrap and freeze loaves for up to 3 months.
  • For more spice, add ¼–½ tsp extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breads
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini loaf
  • Calories: 276
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 171mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.04g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 31mg

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