September 25, 2024

Pumpkin Bread

Healthy Fact of the Day

While Pumpkin Bread is a delicious treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. These nutrients support eye health and immune function. To make this bread healthier, you could reduce the sugar content, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber, or use applesauce in place of some of the oil to reduce fat content. The addition of walnuts provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Remember, portion control is key when enjoying sweet baked goods like this.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the topping:

2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Stir in pumpkin puree, oil, and water until well combined.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
If using, fold in walnuts and raisins.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
For the topping, mix brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl until crumbly.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Slice and serve, storing any leftovers in an airtight container.

Slice into this Pumpkin Bread and let the warm, spicy aroma of autumn fill your kitchen! This moist, flavorful loaf captures the essence of the season in every bite, with its perfect blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and aromatic spices. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy sweater on a crisp fall day. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, serving it as an afternoon treat, or bringing it to a festive gathering, this pumpkin bread is sure to be a hit. The optional crumbly topping adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender crumb of the bread. So preheat that oven, grab your canned pumpkin, and get ready to bake up a loaf of pure comfort – it’s like bottling up all the best parts of autumn and serving them on a plate!