Protein Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that embraces the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Protein Pumpkin Bread is not just a delicious way to savor pumpkin, but it’s also a nourishing option that packs over 13 grams of protein per slice. It’s perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or even as a sweet ending to your day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home!

What makes this protein-packed loaf so special? It’s moist and flavorful without any added sugars or oils—just wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about indulging. Whether you’re sharing it with family during breakfast or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and your favorite beverage, this bread is sure to warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes! Perfect for those hectic mornings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the warm spices and sweet flavor—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a loaf on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week. It’s great for meal prep!
• Deliciously healthy: With no sugar and no oil, this protein pumpkin bread is a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to find that these ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to gather. Let’s take a look at what you need to whip up this delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread!

For the Batter

• 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 2 egg whites (sub with 1 whole egg)
• ⅓ cup (80 g) Greek yogurt
• 2 to 3 tbsp maple syrup (or more to taste)
• 2 tbsp (30 g) nut butter (almond butter, peanut butter, cashew butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cup (150 g) oat flour (sub with preferred flour)
• ½ cup (50 g) protein powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For Extra Flavor

• ¼ cup (40 g) chocolate chips (sugar-free if necessary)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ⅙ tsp ground nutmeg
• ⅙ tsp ground ginger
• ⅙ tsp ground cloves

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and mix things up according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the nut butter: Try different nut butters like sunflower seed butter for nut-free options.
• Change up the flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour if you prefer gluten-free alternatives.
• Add nuts or seeds: Toss in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch!
• Mix in dried fruit: Adding raisins or cranberries can give your bread an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Protein Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C). This ensures that your Protein Pumpkin Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While it heats up, prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.

Step 2: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with the egg, egg whites, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk these together until everything is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial because it creates the moist base of our bread.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next up, gently fold in the oat flour and baking powder into your wet mixture. Once that’s incorporated nicely, sprinkle in the protein powder. Be careful not to over-mix at this stage; we want our bread fluffy!

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

If you’re feeling indulgent, now’s the time to add chocolate chips into the batter. They bring little bursts of sweetness that pair perfectly with pumpkin spice flavors!

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—it helps maintain its moisture!

Enjoy every bite of this Protein Pumpkin Bread knowing it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition!

Pro Tips for Making Protein Pumpkin Bread

Making this Protein Pumpkin Bread is a breeze with these helpful tips that ensure your loaf comes out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, making your own puree from fresh pumpkins can enhance the flavor and texture of your bread, giving it a homemade touch.
• Don’t skip the Greek yogurt: This ingredient not only adds moisture but also boosts the protein content in your bread. Plus, it contributes to a lovely, tender crumb!
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference for sweetness, feel free to add more or less maple syrup. Remember, the chocolate chips also add a bit of sweetness!
• Let it cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing the bread to cool completely before cutting helps maintain its structure and prevents it from being too crumbly.
• Experiment with spices: If you love spices, don’t hesitate to adjust the amounts or try adding new ones like allspice or cardamom to customize the flavor profile of your pumpkin bread.

How to Serve Protein Pumpkin Bread

This delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, here are some creative ideas!

Garnishes

• Nut butter drizzle: A quick drizzle of almond or peanut butter on top adds creaminess and enhances the nutty flavor of the bread.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can bring an extra layer of richness and tropical flair that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt with honey: A dollop of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes a wonderful creamy accompaniment that balances sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples and pears offers a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the bread.
• Smoothie: Pairing this bread with a protein-packed smoothie can create a satisfying breakfast or snack combination that keeps you energized throughout the day.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Enjoying slices of this delicious pumpkin bread alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee creates a cozy experience perfect for any time of day.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Protein Pumpkin Bread in delightful new ways! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Protein Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it provide a healthy option for breakfast or snacks throughout the week, but it also stores exceptionally well. Here’s how to keep your delicious bread fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to three months. Label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave on high for 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, toast slices in a toaster or on a skillet until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Protein Pumpkin Bread:

Can I use different types of protein powder in this Protein Pumpkin Bread?

Yes! You can use whey, casein, or plant-based protein powder based on your preference. Just ensure that it is unflavored or complimentary to pumpkin flavor.

How do I adjust sweetness in my Protein Pumpkin Bread?

You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or substituting with other natural sweeteners like honey or agave. Taste the batter before baking to find your preferred level of sweetness!

Is this Protein Pumpkin Bread gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oat flour or another gluten-free flour substitute, this recipe will be suitable for gluten-free diets.

How can I make this Protein Pumpkin Bread vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the egg and egg whites with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Ensure that you also use plant-based yogurt and nut butter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a nutritious snack; it’s like having a cozy hug from Fall in every bite. Perfectly spiced and packed with protein, it’s designed to fuel your day while satisfying your sweet cravings. So go ahead, give it a try—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!