Healthy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Icing – A High-Protein, Refined-Sugar-Free Treat

This delicious pumpkin bread is not just indulgent; it’s packed with healthy ingredients that make it the perfect nutritious snack or breakfast. Made with pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt for extra protein, and sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, this bread is a wholesome take on the classic fall favorite. It’s soft, moist, and spiced with cinnamon, making it a warm and comforting treat that’s hard to resist. The cream cheese icing on top adds a layer of richness that perfectly complements the spiced 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’ll Love This Recipe:

You’ll love this pumpkin bread for its rich, flavorful taste and its nutritious twist. The combination of Greek yogurt and pumpkin puree ensures the bread is moist and packed with protein, while olive oil and honey (or maple syrup) keep it light and naturally sweetened. The addition of cinnamon brings that classic cozy flavor, making it a go-to recipe for the fall season. The cream cheese icing is an optional indulgence, 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 for any time of day—whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee, as a mid-afternoon snack, or as a lighter dessert after dinner. It’s ideal for meal prepping, as it stays moist and flavorful for days, making it a great option to have on hand during busy weeks. You can also bake 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.

Decoration Tips:

For an extra touch of elegance, you can drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top of the loaf once it’s cooled, letting it cascade down the sides for a visually appealing finish. If you’d like to add some texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, over the icing. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top will give it an extra pop of flavor and make the presentation even more inviting. If serving during a holiday gathering, garnish with a few pumpkin seeds or edible fall leaves to enhance the seasonal vibe.

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Bread:

• 1 can pumpkin puree
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (or 1/2 cup sourdough starter 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 baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 8 oz soft cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf tin with parchment paper to prevent 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 fully incorporated.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spice.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread.
5. Bake the Bread:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Bread:
   Once baked, allow the bread to cool completely in the loaf tin before adding the icing. Cooling is essential to ensure the icing sets properly and doesn’t melt.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing:
   In a small bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner icing, add a splash of milk or plant-based milk.
8. Top with Icing:
   Once the bread has cooled, generously spread or drizzle the cream cheese icing over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or chopped nuts over the icing.

Enjoy this moist, healthy, and protein-packed pumpkin bread topped with rich, tangy cream cheese icing—a perfect treat for any time of the day!