1-Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (or 350°F if using a metal loaf pan) and spray the loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2-Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice until evenly combined.

3-Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 (15 ounce) can pure pumpkin, 2 large eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ⅓ cup water; stir well until smooth.

4-Combine dry and wet: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until blended, making sure to avoid overmixing for a tender loaf.

5-Pour batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

6-Bake: Bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, checking for doneness after 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick it should come out clean.

7-Make the glaze: For the glaze, whisk 1 tablespoon butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons milk in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir constantly for about 2 minutes.

8-Apply glaze and cool: Once the bread is baked and still warm, poke holes in it with a fork or toothpick, then slowly pour the warm glaze over the bread to let it seep in. Press ¼ cup chopped pecans on top if desired, and allow the bread to cool before slicing.