Samhain Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9X5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree, orange juice, and orange zest.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Stir in the walnuts, if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Interesting Facts

• Pumpkin is a symbol of Samhain, a traditional holiday celebrated in the British Isles.
• Pumpkin bread is a popular fall treat in the United States.
• The combination of warm spices in this bread adds a unique flavor to the bread.