Agnes' Halloween Treat
A moist and flavorful pumpkin loaf infused with warm spices and crunchy pecans, perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift all dry ingredients together: flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder.
- Add Wesson oil, eggs, vanilla, and chopped and floured pecans to the dry mixture.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the batter into 2 greased and floured loaf pans.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure you're not overmixing the batter once the wet ingredients are added. You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor. If you want a twist, consider adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture. Use fresh pumpkin puree for a more pronounced pumpkin flavor, if available.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the loaves and serve them warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. Enjoy them alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy fall treat. This recipe also makes a great gift during the Halloween season!
Storage & Reheating
Allow the loaves to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves by wrapping them well and placing them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Agnes' Halloween Treat contains roughly 913 calories, with 13g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (99% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 895mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. However, this may affect the texture, making it denser. You might want to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it's fully cooked.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives. For a nut-free version, consider adding chocolate chips or sunflower seeds for added crunch without the allergens.
Can I make this recipe into muffins instead of loaves?
Absolutely! To make muffins, pour the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake for about 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary. This is a great way to create individual portions for gatherings!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).