Inspired by the comforting flavors of autumn, this recipe takes the classic pumpkin bread and elevates it with rich dark chocolate and a hint of chai spices. The result is a beautifully moist loaf that marries the earthiness of pumpkin with the decadence of chocolate, drizzled with a spiced chai glaze that adds an aromatic finish. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful breakfast treat, this bread is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pumpkin Bread:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)

For the Spiced Chai Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chai spice blend (can be made with equal parts cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

While the bread cools, prepare the spiced chai glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and chai spice blend until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the spiced chai glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides like a beautiful chocolate waterfall.

Slice and serve this exquisite Chocolate Pumpkin Bread with Spiced Chai Glaze, and bask in the delightful reactions as your guests savor each unique bite. This creation is not just a loaf; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors that transport you to a cozy autumn day with each mouthful. Enjoy!