Protein Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall while getting a protein boost, then this Protein Pumpkin Bread is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen for its cozy spices and moist texture. Not only is it perfect for busy mornings or as a post-workout snack, but it also makes a delightful dessert that everyone will love. With over 13 grams of protein per slice, you can indulge without any guilt!

Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this Protein Pumpkin Bread fits right in for any occasion. It’s easy to whip up and fills your home with the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will definitely become a staple in your healthy eating routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in protein: Each slice packs over 13 grams of protein, making it a great option for muscle recovery or as a filling breakfast.
• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious bread ready in no time!
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—this bread fits perfectly into any meal.
• No added sugar: Sweetened naturally with maple syrup, you can feel good about enjoying this treat.
• Moist and flavorful: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a loaf that’s not only nutritious but absolutely tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Protein Pumpkin Bread are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a moist and flavorful loaf that everyone will adore!

For the Bread:

• 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, see notes)
• 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 (see notes)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

• Swap the nut butter: Feel free to use any nut or seed butter you like—sunflower seed butter is a great alternative!
• Add some fruit: Toss in some chopped apples or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
• Change up the spices: Experiment by adding different spices like cardamom or allspice to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Make it vegan: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

How to Make Protein Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Heat your oven to 340°F (170°C). This ensures that your Protein Pumpkin Bread bakes evenly. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly so that your bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the 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 everything together until smooth. This step is important because it helps incorporate air into the batter, making it light and fluffy!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, fold in the oat flour and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our bread tender! Gently add the protein powder and stir until blended—again avoiding over-mixing.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

If you’re using chocolate chips, now’s the time to fold them into your batter! This adds little pockets of sweetness that complement the pumpkin perfectly.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing—this helps improve its texture!

And there you have it! A delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread that’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Protein Pumpkin Bread

Baking is all about love and a little know-how! Here are some tips to ensure your Protein Pumpkin Bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree offers a richer flavor compared to canned, enhancing the overall taste of your bread. If using canned, ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin with no additives.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the protein powder, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we definitely want to avoid for that fluffy loaf!
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Test your bread with a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
• Let it cool properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming gummy.
• Store correctly: To keep your Protein Pumpkin Bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

How to Serve Protein Pumpkin Bread

Your Protein Pumpkin Bread is not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this wholesome treat.

Garnishes

• Nut butter drizzle: A thin drizzle of almond or peanut butter on top adds creaminess and an extra boost of healthy fats.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top gives a lovely crunch and enhances the autumnal feel.
• Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can provide a sweet twist while adding texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt dip: A side of Greek yogurt mixed with honey or maple syrup can complement the bread’s flavors and add creaminess.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread.
• Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea pairs beautifully with this bread, enhancing those comforting fall spices in every bite.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet loaf.

Enjoy making this delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread! It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert — whatever way you choose to enjoy it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Protein Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it easy to grab a slice for breakfast or a snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For individual slices, you can freeze them separately for easy access.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply remove a slice and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
• For quick reheating, microwave on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can toast it lightly in a toaster or oven for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind as you prepare your Protein Pumpkin Bread!

How can I increase the protein content of my Protein Pumpkin Bread?

You can boost the protein content by adding an extra scoop of protein powder. Just be careful not to over-mix when incorporating it into your batter!

Can I use a different flour instead of oat flour in this Protein Pumpkin Bread recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute oat flour with almond flour, whole wheat flour, or any gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

What makes this Protein Pumpkin Bread a healthy choice?

This recipe uses no added sugar or oil and incorporates Greek yogurt and protein powder, making it nutrient-dense while still being deliciously satisfying!

Is this Protein Pumpkin Bread suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This bread stores well and is perfect for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Protein Pumpkin Bread as much as I do! It’s not only packed with protein but also filled with the cozy flavors of fall. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, I’m sure it will brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!