If you’ve been searching for a delicious treat that satisfies your pumpkin cravings without the guilt, this Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe is absolute perfection. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat and almond flours, natural sweeteners, and cozy spices that make every bite warmly satisfying. Plus, it’s wonderfully easy to make, giving you a moist, flavorful loaf that feels nourishing and indulgent all at once. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to whenever fall comes around or you need a comforting snack with a healthy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding tender texture, that vibrant pumpkin color, or just the right hint of sweetness and spice. Ready to gather your essentials? Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour: Adds a hearty, nutty flavor and boosts fiber for better nutrition.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Keeps the bread moist and offers a subtly sweet undertone.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully without extra fat.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Working alongside baking soda, it ensures the perfect crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the sweet and spicy notes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, classic pumpkin bread spice punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds gentle depth and richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a subtle zing that lifts the flavors.
- 3/4 cup pure pumpkin puree: The heart of this recipe, offering moisture and natural sweetness without the fuss (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling!).
- 1/2 cup honey or pure maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that bring gentle sweetness and keep the bread moist.
- 2 large eggs: They bind everything together and add protein for a complete bite.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: A smart way to increase moisture with fewer calories and no added fat.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled: Adds healthy fats and a delicate hint of tropical flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances every flavor in the batter with a lovely aroma.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and extra nutrition.
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (optional): For a touch of indulgence that pairs so well with pumpkin.
How to Make Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your pumpkin bread will release easily once it’s perfectly baked and cooled.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Incorporating the spices evenly here gives the bread its signature warm, autumnal flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, eggs, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly makes sure every bite is perfectly moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones. It’s important to mix just until everything is combined—overmixing can toughen your bread, and we want tender, soft slices every time.
Step 5: Add Optional Extras
If you’re craving extra texture and bursts of richness, gently fold in the chopped nuts and/or dark chocolate chips. They elevate this healthier pumpkin bread recipe to something truly special while adding delightful surprises with every bite.
Step 6: Pour Batter and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell filling your kitchen at this point is pure bliss!
Step 7: Cool before Serving
Once your bread is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the loaf set so that every slice holds together beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To take your pumpkin bread from lovely to striking, try topping slices with a smear of natural almond butter, a light drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Freshly whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also add creamy indulgence for a cozy treat.
Side Dishes
This bread shines on its own, but pairing it with a warming cup of spiced tea, a bold black coffee, or a creamy latte makes breakfast or afternoon snack feel like a special occasion. For a more substantial meal, enjoy alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of homemade chili—the sweet and spicy notes complement savory dishes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and toast it lightly, then top with ricotta and a scattering of pomegranate seeds for a festive twist. You can also cube the bread and serve it as part of a fall-inspired bread pudding or French toast casserole for brunch—both ideas let the wonderful pumpkin flavor shine in fun new ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It generally stays delicious for about three days, though you might find it irresistible enough to eat faster! For longer storage, refrigeration is an option but make sure to bring slices back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save extras for later, this pumpkin bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to three months, so you can enjoy it anytime you want a nutritious, comforting snack.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated pumpkin bread, simply reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at a low temperature until warm. This method revives its soft, moist texture perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make the bread a bit rubbery.
FAQs
Can I substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can swap whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter texture, but whole wheat adds fiber and a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall wholesome nature of this healthier pumpkin bread recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegan sweetener like maple syrup along with coconut oil for a delicious vegan version.
Why do I need both baking soda and baking powder?
Using both ensures a perfect rise and tender crumb. Baking soda reacts with the acidity in pumpkin and applesauce, while baking powder provides additional lift, making your bread beautifully airy.
Can I omit the nuts and chocolate chips?
Yes, those ingredients are completely optional and can be omitted without affecting the core flavors. The bread will still be moist and flavorful, making this recipe very flexible to your tastes or dietary needs.
How long will the bread stay fresh at room temperature?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the bread stays fresh and tasty for up to three days at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing will keep it good longer.
Final Thoughts
This Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy all the cozy flavors of fall without compromising on nutrition or taste. Whether you need a comforting breakfast, an energizing snack, or a crowd-pleasing gift, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Healthier Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This healthier pumpkin bread recipe combines whole wheat and almond flours with warm spices and natural sweeteners for a moist, flavorful loaf. Packed with pumpkin puree, it features wholesome ingredients like honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, and optional walnuts or dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack, this bread balances indulgence with nourishing elements.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips to evenly distribute throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender texture.
- Optional nuts add a lovely crunch, while dark chocolate chips offer a touch of sweetness.
- Store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to one week.
- This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
