Dessert

Pumpkin Bourbon Loaf Recipe

ByEthan Lark December 15, 2025December 15, 2025

Introduction

This Pumpkin Bourbon Loaf is a moist and flavorful treat perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights in. Combining the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a hint of bourbon creates a unique and delicious loaf that everyone will love.

A white rectangular plate holds three slices cut from a larger loaf of dense, crumbly pumpkin bread. The bread has a warm orange-brown color and rough textured edges. The slices are arranged leaning against each other on the left side of the plate while the remaining loaf sits on the right. The plate is placed on a dark patterned cloth with gold and black details. Behind the plate, there is an orange pumpkin that is softly out of focus against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Coconut Oil Cooking Spray (as needed)
1/2 cup Butter
1 can 100% Pumpkin Purée
1/2 cup Coconut Oil
4 Eggs
1/4 cup Bourbon
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
3 cups Coconut Flour
1 3/4 cups Granulated Sugar
2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
1/2 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (176 degrees C). Line two 9-inch loaf pans with parchment paper and spray them generously with coconut oil cooking spray as needed.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Let it bubble and turn golden with a nutty aroma, watching carefully to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, coconut oil, and eggs, stirring to blend.
Step 4: In a glass measuring cup, mix the bourbon and vanilla extract, then add water to reach the 2/3 cup mark.
Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom, and salt to aerate the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Pour the cooled brown butter into the pumpkin mixture and whisk thoroughly. Then add this along with the bourbon mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir well until a thick, soft dough forms.
Step 7: Divide the dough evenly between the prepared loaf pans, pressing firmly to form solid loaves.
Step 8: Place the loaf pans on a sheet tray and bake for 50–60 minutes, until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the loaves to cool before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try substituting the bourbon with dark rum or maple syrup.
Make sure to watch the butter closely when browning to avoid a burnt taste.
Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add texture and extra flavor.
If you prefer a less sweet loaf, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.

Storage

Store the pumpkin bourbon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows four slices of a light brown, crumbly cake arranged on a white rectangular plate. The cake texture looks dense and slightly grainy, with three slices leaning against each other in the middle and one slice lying flat on the left side. In the background, there is a large, smooth pumpkin adding a warm orange tone to the scene. The plate rests on a patterned fabric with dark and gold colors, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I omit the bourbon if I don’t want alcohol in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with an equal amount of water or apple juice for similar moisture without alcohol.

Is coconut flour necessary, or can I use regular flour instead?

Coconut flour is important here because of its unique absorbency and texture. Using regular flour will change the loaf’s texture and may require adjustments in liquid quantities.