Healthy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting – A High Protein, No Refined Sugar Treat

This delicious pumpkin bread is not only indulgent; it’s packed with healthy ingredients that make it the perfect nutritious snack or breakfast. Made with pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt for added protein, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, this bread is a healthy take on a classic fall favorite. It’s sweet, chewy, and spiced with cinnamon, making it a warm, comforting treat that’s hard to resist. The cream cheese frosting on top adds a layer of richness that perfectly complements the spicy pumpkin flavor, making every bite a delight. And best of all, it’s refined sugar-free, so you can enjoy this bread guilt-free!

Why you will love this recipe:

You’ll love this pumpkin bread for its rich, savory taste and nutritious twist. The combination of Greek yogurt and pumpkin puree ensures the bread is moist and protein-rich, while the olive oil and honey (or maple syrup) keep it light and naturally sweet. The addition of cinnamon brings that classic, warm flavor, making this a must-have recipe for the fall season. Cream cheese frosting is an optional treat, but it adds a creamy, tangy sweetness that makes this bread feel like a special treat. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a delicious dessert, this pumpkin bread hits all the right notes!

Perfect occasion:

This pumpkin bread is perfect any time of day, whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee, as a mid-afternoon snack, or as a lighter after-dinner dessert. It’s great for meal prepping because it stays moist and flavorful for days, making it a great option to have on hand during busy weeks. You can also make this bread for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving brunch, or holiday potlucks where you want to serve something both healthy and delicious. If you’re looking for a cozy treat that’s also good for you, this pumpkin bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Decorating Tips:

For an extra touch of elegance, you can drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top of the bread once cooled, letting it flow down the sides for a visually appealing finish. If you want to add a little texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, over the frosting. A light sprinkling of cinnamon or nutmeg on top will give it an extra touch of flavor and make the presentation even more appealing. If serving at a holiday gathering, garnish with some pumpkin seeds or edible fall leaves to enhance the seasonal ambiance.

Ingredients:

For the pumpkin bread:

• 1 can of pumpkin puree
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (or 1/2 cup sourdough and 1/2 cup Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 ounces soft cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cake pan with baking paper to prevent it from sticking.
2. Prepare the wet ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, olive oil and honey (or maple syrup). Mix well until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and stir until completely incorporated.
3. Mix the dry ingredients:
   In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in a denser loaf.
5. Bake the bread:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.
6. Cool the bread:
   Once cooked, allow the bread to cool completely in the cake pan before adding the icing. Chilling is essential to ensure the frosting sets properly and does not melt.
7. Prepare the cream cheese frosting:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner frosting, add a little milk or vegetable milk.
8. replaces the word nice with emptyp with icing:
   Once the bread has cooled, generously spread or drizzle the cream cheese frosting on top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or chopped walnuts on the frosting.

Enjoy this moist, healthy, protein-rich pumpkin bread topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting: a perfect treat any time of day!