Healthy Pumpkin Bread
This Healthy Pumpkin Bread recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall all year round. Using an entire can of pumpkin, this bread turns out perfectly moist, fluffy, and light. It’s suitable for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. With warm spices and whole grain goodness, this healthy treat will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this healthy pumpkin bread in the oven in no time.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Made with whole wheat pastry flour and pumpkin puree, this recipe offers fiber and essential nutrients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, cold, or at room temperature; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The use of an entire can of pumpkin ensures that every slice is delightfully moist and flavorful.
- Delicious Spices: A blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg adds depth to the flavor profile that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your healthy pumpkin bread, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: This is crucial for shaping the bread properly as it bakes evenly.
- Electric mixer: It helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly, saving you time and effort.
- Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the bread so it cools evenly without becoming soggy.
Ingredients
This healthy pumpkin bread uses a whole can of pumpkin for a perfectly moist yet fluffy and light whole grain pumpkin treat!
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup golden coconut sugar (or unbleached organic sugar)
- 1/3 cup softened butter
- 1 large egg
- 16 ounces pumpkin puree
How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine the whole wheat pastry flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Whisk together until well combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large-sized bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and golden coconut sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add in one large egg and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Add in 16 ounces of pumpkin puree to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Start by adding 1/4 of the flour mixture.
2. Mix gently until combined before adding more flour.
3. Repeat until all dry ingredients are fully mixed in but do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake for about 55-75 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Let your healthy pumpkin bread cool on the counter for one hour:
1. Remove from the pan carefully.
2. Place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Store Properly
Wrap the cooled bread in saran wrap followed by aluminum foil to keep it fresh:
You can enjoy it cold or warm at any time!
How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Bread
Healthy pumpkin bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices pair beautifully with numerous accompaniments.
Simple Toast with Butter
- A classic choice: Spread a thin layer of butter on warm slices for a comforting treat.
Cream Cheese Spread
- Elevate your pumpkin bread by adding a dollop of cream cheese. The tangy flavor complements the sweetness perfectly.
Nut Butter Delight
- Almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness. Spread it on top for a satisfying snack or breakfast.
Fruit Compote Topping
- Top your pumpkin bread with homemade or store-bought fruit compote. The fruity sweetness brings a fresh contrast to the bread.
How to Perfect Healthy Pumpkin Bread
To ensure your healthy pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Opt for freshly made pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Canned versions can work but may lack freshness.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Check Doneness: Different ovens vary in temperature. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a cooling rack. This prevents sogginess at the bottom.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pumpkin Bread
Pairing your healthy pumpkin bread with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors well.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt offers creaminess and protein, making it a nutritious addition.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the pumpkin bread with its natural acidity.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding is full of fiber and makes for an excellent complement with its creamy texture.
- Scrambled Eggs: A savory option that pairs well, providing protein and balancing out the sweet flavors.
- Oatmeal: Serve alongside oatmeal topped with nuts and berries for a hearty breakfast spread.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea enhances relaxation while enjoying this delicious treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making healthy pumpkin bread can be an enjoyable experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Using the wrong flour: Whole wheat pastry flour is key for moisture and fluffiness. Substituting with regular whole wheat may result in a dense loaf.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a tough texture. Stir until just combined for the best fluffy outcome.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bread during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Skipping the cooling process: Letting your bread cool fully allows flavors to develop. Cutting too soon can lead to a gummy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to avoid mishaps.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap for added freshness.
Freezing Healthy Pumpkin Bread
- Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor retention.
Reheating Healthy Pumpkin Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices in 15-second intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making healthy pumpkin bread.
What makes this a healthy pumpkin bread?
This healthy pumpkin bread uses whole wheat pastry flour and coconut sugar, providing better nutrition compared to traditional recipes.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin properly before adding it to the recipe for similar results.
How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your healthy pumpkin bread by adding walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips.
How should I serve healthy pumpkin bread?
This bread is versatile! Enjoy it warm with butter or cream cheese, or as a delightful addition to breakfast with coffee or tea.
Final Thoughts
This healthy pumpkin bread recipe is not only easy to make but also offers great versatility. You can customize it with nuts or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this delightful loaf will surely satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!
Healthy Pumpkin Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Healthy Pumpkin Bread, a delightful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Made with an entire can of pumpkin puree, this recipe guarantees a moist and fluffy texture that will impress your family and friends. Enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this wholesome treat is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and nutrients from whole wheat pastry flour. Enjoy it warm with butter or paired with cream cheese for a delightful twist. This simple yet satisfying recipe is a must-have in your baking repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups whole wheat pastry flour
- 16 ounces pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup golden coconut sugar
- 1/3 cup softened butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter and coconut sugar until fluffy; add the egg and mix well.
- Stir in pumpkin puree until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-75 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (65g)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
