Name: Pumpkin Bread with Ras El Hanout and Pumpkin Seeds Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups white whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour (226g); 2 1/2 teaspoons ras el hanout; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 (15-ounce can) pumpkin purée; 1/2 cup honey (170g); 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (80ml); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or pepitas

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you love cozy flavors and a touch of exotic warmth, this Pumpkin Bread with Ras El Hanout and Pumpkin Seeds Recipe is an absolute must-try. The beautiful blend of fragrant North African spices in ras el hanout pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and honey, making each slice brim with autumnal comfort. Topped with crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds, this bread is a delightful treat that’s moist, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re baking for your family or looking to impress friends at a gathering, this pumpkin bread delivers both on taste and texture with an irresistible appeal.

Ingredients You'll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, smooth orange mixture with a slightly grainy texture. Inside the bowl, a wooden-handled spatula with a blue silicone tip is resting, partially covered by the orange mixture, showing soft swirls and folds on the surface. The lighting highlights the creamy consistency and subtle specks within the mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this bread are straightforward but carefully chosen, ensuring every bite is packed with depth and richness. Each element contributes not just to flavor but also to the perfect crumb and beautiful golden color that make this loaf so special.

White whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour (2 cups): A lighter whole wheat flour that keeps the bread tender while adding wholesome texture.
Ras el hanout (2 ½ teaspoons): This warm, complex Moroccan spice blend infuses the bread with aromatic hints of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise and gives it a lovely soft crumb.
Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Pumpkin purée (15-ounce can): The star ingredient that brings moistness and that signature pumpkin taste.
Honey (½ cup): Adds natural sweetness and complements the spices beautifully.
Extra virgin olive oil (⅓ cup): Offers a subtle fruity richness and keeps the bread moist.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add structure.
Pumpkin seeds or pepitas (¼ cup): Provide a toasty crunch and a lovely finishing touch on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Ras El Hanout and Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Make sure you prepare your loaf pan properly by brushing it with olive oil or giving it a quick spray with baking spray. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from sticking and helps you get perfect slices once it's baked.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ras el hanout, baking soda, and kosher salt. This ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the bread, so every bite bursts with balanced flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin purée, honey, olive oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth. The pumpkin and honey add moisture and sweetness, while the olive oil brings richness, and the eggs add the necessary structure for the bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and gently fold them together with a silicone spatula. Don’t overmix here; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will keep your loaf tender and soft.

Step 5: Bake Your Loaf

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with your spatula. Sprinkle the pumpkin seeds evenly over the surface. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow baking allows flavors to deepen and the crust to develop a beautiful golden hue with a lovely crispness on top.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing it and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps the bread set so you can slice perfectly without crumbling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Ras El Hanout and Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

A single slice of brown, moist bread with a slightly rough texture is placed in the center of a white scalloped plate. The bread has a small bite taken from the top edge, and some dark green pumpkin seeds are scattered to the right side of the slice on the plate. Above the plate, there is a white cup with a blue marbled edge filled halfway with coffee that has golden brown foam on top. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface, with soft natural light casting gentle shadows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a touch of elegance, brush the top of warm slices with a little melted butter or drizzle with honey. For a savory twist, sprinkle some flaky sea salt over the pumpkin seeds just before serving. A handful of toasted nuts or a spread of whipped cream cheese also pairs gorgeously.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread shines alongside a cozy bowl of butternut squash soup or a spiced chai latte. It also pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses or a fruit compote when served as part of a brunch spread. The interplay of its warm spices with savory or sweet sides makes it so versatile.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not elevate your serving style by turning slices of the bread into mini sandwiches with cream cheese and fig jam? Or cut into cubes and offer it as part of a bread basket for your holiday table. Adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a smear of cinnamon butter can make presentation both simple and stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap your pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to five days, maintaining that moist, tender crumb without drying out.

Freezing

Want to bake ahead? This bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three months, ready to thaw when you need a quick, delicious snack.

Reheating

To bring your pumpkin bread back to life, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. For an extra touch, spread with a bit of butter or cream cheese before enjoying the warm, comforting aromas and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes! Using all-purpose flour will give you a lighter texture but slightly less nuttiness and fiber. Whole wheat pastry flour is a great balance that keeps the loaf tender yet wholesome.

What is ras el hanout, and can I substitute it?

Ras el hanout is a Moroccan spice blend featuring fragrant spices like cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and cardamom. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon and ground ginger with a pinch of cloves can work as a substitute.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Just roast and purée fresh pumpkin flesh until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess water for a similar texture to canned purée.

Are the pumpkin seeds essential, or can I leave them out?

The pumpkin seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, but you can certainly omit them if you prefer a smoother texture or need a nut-free option.

How long does this pumpkin bread stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, your pumpkin bread will stay fresh for up to five days. Refrigerating can extend it slightly but may dry it out, so airtight storage is key.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Ras El Hanout and Pumpkin Seeds Recipe is one of those rare finds that feels special yet is wonderfully simple to make. It brings together comforting fall flavors with a unique spice twist that is so inviting. Baking this loaf fills your kitchen with happiness, and sharing it makes every moment sweeter. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this bread, it will quickly become a treasured favorite to bake again and again.