Healthy Pumpkin Bread: Classic & Paleo Options

Hey there, pumpkin lovers! ? Fall is here, and it’s time to fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread. Whether you prefer a classic healthy version or need a paleo-friendly option, I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into the benefits of pumpkin and then get to the delicious recipes.

Why Pumpkin is a Fall Superfood

Pumpkin isn’t just for carving—it’s a true nutritional powerhouse! Here are some reasons why you should incorporate more pumpkin into your diet:

1. Rich in Vitamins: Packed with Vitamin A, which supports eye health, immune function, and skin health. Plus, you get a boost of Vitamin C, E, and B vitamins.
2. Loaded with Antioxidants: The antioxidants in pumpkin can help fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Low in Calories: Despite being nutrient-dense, pumpkin is low in calories, making it ideal for those mindful of their calorie intake.
4. High in Fiber: With its high fiber content, pumpkin supports digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Healthy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Here are two ways to make this fall treat: a classic healthy version and a paleo-friendly version!

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Classic Healthy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blend
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in walnuts or dark chocolate chips if desired.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Macros per Slice (assuming 10 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 8g
• Fat: 8g

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Paleo-Friendly Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1 tsp baking powder (make sure it’s grain-free/paleo-friendly)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips (dairy-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, coconut oil, maple syrup (or honey), coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. In another bowl, mix the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips if desired.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Macros per Slice (assuming 10 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 7g
• Fat: 15g

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Grocery List

Here’s everything you need to make either version of the pumpkin bread:

Produce:

• Pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)

Pantry Staples:

• Coconut oil
• Maple syrup or honey
• Coconut sugar
• Vanilla extract

Baking Essentials:

• Eggs
• Baking powder (ensure grain-free for paleo)
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves

For Classic Healthy Version:

• Whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blend
• Optional: Walnuts or dark chocolate chips

For Paleo Version:

• Almond flour
• Coconut flour
• Optional: Walnuts, pecans, or dairy-free dark chocolate chips

Enjoy the Warmth of Fall with a Healthy Twist

Whether you go with the classic or paleo-friendly version, this pumpkin bread is a delicious way to embrace fall. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with the goodness of pumpkin. Perfect for cozy mornings or as a healthy snack, it’s sure to be a hit in your home!

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know your thoughts and any fun twists you add in the comments below! ?

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