Lighter Pumpkin Bread: A Healthy Fall Comfort Recipe

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Looking for a healthier way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall? This lighter pumpkin bread recipe delivers all the warmth and comfort you crave, without the guilt. Made with whole wheat flour and naturally sweetened with honey, this moist and fluffy bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a wholesome dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Ingredients: Uses whole wheat flour instead of refined flour
• Natural Sweetness: Sweetened with honey instead of refined sugar
• Perfectly Moist: The pumpkin puree ensures a tender, moist texture
• Warm Fall Spices: A perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
• Simple to Make: Just mix, pour, and bake!

Time Requirements

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour recommended

Ingredients

Makes 12 Servings

Main Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• ½ cup oil (120 mL)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (225 g)
• ⅔ cup honey (226 g)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1¾ cups whole wheat flour (225 g)

Spices and Leavening:

• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1½ teaspoons ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) before beginning.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine eggs, oil, pumpkin puree, honey, and water
   • Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the wet mixture
   • Add all spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
   • Include baking soda and salt
   • Fold everything together until you have a well-combined batter
4. Prepare for Baking:
   • Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan
   • Smooth the top to ensure even baking
5. Bake:
   • Place in preheated oven
   • Bake for approximately 1 hour
   • Test doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean
6. Cool:
   • Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes
   • Carefully remove from pan
   • Allow to cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour before slicing

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

1. Ingredient Temperature:
   • Bring eggs to room temperature for better incorporation
   • Use room temperature pumpkin puree for smoother mixing
2. Measuring:
   • Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid packing
   • Measure honey in a greased measuring cup for easier pouring
3. Mixing:
   • Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour
   • Fold gently to maintain tenderness
4. Testing Doneness:
   • Insert toothpick in center – should come out clean
   • Bread should spring back when lightly pressed
5. Storage:
   • Keep wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days
   • Can be frozen for up to 3 months

Health Benefits

This lighter version of pumpkin bread offers several nutritional advantages:

1. Whole Wheat Flour:
   • Higher in fiber than refined flour
   • Contains more nutrients and minerals
   • Better for blood sugar control
2. Pumpkin:
   • Rich in vitamin A
   • Good source of fiber
   • Contains antioxidants
3. Honey:
   • Natural sweetener with antimicrobial properties
   • Contains beneficial antioxidants
   • Adds moisture and helps preserve freshness

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this bread in various ways:

• Warm with a pat of butter
• Topped with almond butter for extra protein
• Alongside your morning coffee or tea
• As a healthy afternoon snack
• Toasted with a drizzle of honey
• As a base for French toast

Variations Of Lighter Pumpkin Bread:

Customize this recipe while maintaining its healthy profile:

• Add chopped nuts for protein and crunch
• Include dark chocolate chips for occasional indulgence
• Swap in different spice combinations
• Add pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top for extra nutrition
• Include dried cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Counter: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week
• Freezer: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months
• Slicing: Pre-slice before freezing for easy portions

This lighter pumpkin bread proves that healthy can be delicious. It’s the perfect way to enjoy fall flavors while maintaining a balanced diet. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every slice.