Easy Healthy Pumpkin Bread Recipe: A Fall Favorite
As the cool breeze of autumn begins to settle in, nothing feels more comforting than the smell of fresh pumpkin bread baking in the oven. This easy healthy pumpkin bread recipe is the perfect way to celebrate fall without overindulging. Made with wholesome ingredients, it's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling good all season long.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread
- Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin is packed with vitamins like A and C, plus fiber to support digestion.
- Naturally Sweetened: This recipe uses maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener, reducing the need for refined sugars.
- Whole Grains: We use whole wheat flour to add extra fiber and keep you feeling fuller for longer.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can easily make this bread dairy-free by swapping regular milk with almond or oat milk.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with a little oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), olive oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the dry mixture.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix as this can make the bread dense.
5. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Healthy Pumpkin Bread:
- Add Mix-ins: You can make this bread extra special by adding in raisins, dried cranberries, or even a handful of pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Vegan: Swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) to make this bread completely plant-based.
- Freeze for Later: This pumpkin bread freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature.
Why Pumpkin Bread is the Ultimate Fall Treat
Pumpkin bread is not only a delicious fall staple, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a snack with your afternoon tea, or even a light dessert. The best part? It's a healthier option compared to many baked goods, thanks to the fiber and nutrients from the pumpkin and whole wheat flour.
Final Thoughts
This easy healthy pumpkin bread recipe will become your go-to for fall baking. It’s flavorful, comforting, and nutritious—perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it warm with a spread of butter or on its own, it's the perfect way to embrace the cozy vibes of autumn.
Happy baking! 🍂