Bake Amazing High Protein Pumpkin Bread in Under 1 Hour

Okay, friends, let’s talk pumpkin bread! I don’t know about you, but as soon as there’s a *hint* of crispness in the air, my brain goes straight to pumpkin spice EVERYTHING. But, let’s be real, a lot of those fall treats are basically just sugar bombs. So, I set out to create something that satisfies those autumnal cravings *and* keeps you feeling good. That’s where this high protein pumpkin bread comes in – it’s seriously the best of both worlds!

I’ve been baking pumpkin bread every fall since I was a kid (my grandma’s recipe was legendary!). But this year, I wanted to give it a healthy twist. Trust me, you won’t even notice it’s packed with protein, it’s *that* good. Get ready for the coziest, most delicious, and surprisingly good-for-you treat of the season!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Seriously, you’re gonna be obsessed! This isn’t just *another* pumpkin bread recipe. It’s got a few things going for it that make it totally irresistible, and perfect for fall!

Quick and Easy

Who has time for complicated recipes? Not me! This high protein pumpkin bread comes together in a snap. Promise!

Delicious Fall Flavor

All those warm spices we crave this time of year are right here. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, the works! So yummy.

Packed with Protein

Yep, you read that right! We’re sneaking in some protein powder to keep you full and satisfied. It’s a game-changer!

Perfect for a Healthy Snack or Breakfast

Grab a slice for a quick breakfast, or an afternoon snack. It’s totally guilt-free – and the protein helps keep you going!

Ingredients for High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing high protein pumpkin bread. Don’t worry, most of it’s probably already in your pantry. And seriously, using the right ingredients makes ALL the difference!

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our bread!
• 1 tsp baking soda – for that perfect rise.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – gotta have that warm spice!
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg – adds a little cozy depth.
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves – just a pinch for complexity.
• 1/2 tsp salt – balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling!) – HUGE difference, trust me! You want plain pumpkin.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness, of course.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar – adds a little molasses-y goodness.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil – keeps things moist.
• 2 large eggs – binds everything together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup protein powder – (whey or plant-based) – I usually use whey, but pick your fave! Just make sure it tastes good on its own!

How to Make High Protein Pumpkin Bread: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, ready to get our bake on? Don’t worry, this is super easy! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious loaf of high protein pumpkin bread in no time. I promise, it’s worth it!

Preparing the Oven and Pan

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease and flour a loaf pan. This helps the bread come out cleanly later. Trust me, you don’t want any sticking!

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisking helps distribute everything evenly, so you don’t get clumps of baking soda in your bread (yuck!).

Combining the Wet Ingredients

Now, in a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything’s well combined! This is where all that yummy flavor starts to come together.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until *just* combined. Don’t overmix! Overmixing leads to tough bread. We want tender, moist bread, people!

Adding Protein Powder to the Pumpkin Bread Batter

Stir in the protein powder. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. You don’t want any pockets of protein powder! I usually just fold it in gently.

Baking the High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven’s different, so keep an eye on it! If it’s browning too fast, tent it with foil.

Cooling and Serving

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from getting soggy. Then slice, serve, and enjoy your amazing high protein pumpkin bread!

Tips for the Best High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Want to make sure your high protein pumpkin bread is *perfect* every time? Here are a few little secrets I’ve learned along the way! These tips make a big difference!

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Seriously, this is a big one! Overmixing develops the gluten and makes the bread tough. Mix until *just* combined, and then stop! Trust me on this one.

Use Quality Protein Powder

Not all protein powders are created equal! If your protein powder tastes gross on its own, it’s gonna taste gross in your bread. Find one you actually like!

Check for Doneness with a Toothpick

This seems obvious, but it’s SO important! Stick a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs), you’re good to go! If it’s wet, bake it a little longer.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Pumpkin Bread

Okay, so maybe you’re missing an ingredient or two, or you wanna tweak things a bit? No problem! Here are a few swaps you can make in this high protein pumpkin bread without totally messing things up. Baking’s a little science-y, but also forgiving!

Protein Powder Substitutions

Don’t have protein powder? No sweat! You can sub in about 1/4 cup of almond flour, but keep in mind it won’t be *high* protein anymore. It’ll still taste amazing, though! You could even try some flaxseed meal for added nutrients.

Sugar Substitutions

Out of granulated or brown sugar? Maple syrup or honey work great! Just use about 1/3 cup and maybe reduce the oil by a tablespoon or two, since they’re a bit more liquid-y. Taste as you go – that’s my motto!

Storing and Reheating Your High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Alright, so you’ve baked this amazing high protein pumpkin bread… Now what? Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious, and how to reheat it so it tastes just as good as the first day!

Storing Instructions

The best way to keep your high protein pumpkin bread moist is to store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days – if it lasts that long! Haha!

Reheating Instructions

Want a warm slice? Pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Or, for a crispier slice, toast it lightly! My favorite? A little butter on top. Mmm!

Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Got questions about this high protein pumpkin bread? I got answers! Here are a few things people often ask me, so you can bake with confidence!

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yep, you totally can! If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free all-purpose blend works great. Just make sure it has xanthan gum in it (or add a pinch yourself) to help with the texture. Otherwise, it might be a little crumbly, but still yummy!

Can I add chocolate chips?

Oh my gosh, YES! Who doesn’t love chocolate chips? Stir in about 1/2 cup of your favorite chocolate chips (dark, milk, whatever you like!) right before pouring the batter into the pan. You could also add nuts, dried cranberries…get creative!

How do I prevent the bread from being dry?

Okay, dryness is the enemy! Make sure you’re measuring your flour correctly (spoon it into the measuring cup, don’t scoop!). And don’t overbake! The toothpick test is your friend. Also, storing it properly in an airtight container is key to keeping that high protein pumpkin bread nice and moist.

Estimated Nutritional Information for High Protein Pumpkin Bread

Okay, so everyone always asks about the nutrition info! Here’s a rough estimate per slice (but remember, it can vary!): Calories: around 200, Protein: 10g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 8g. Not bad for a delicious slice of high protein pumpkin bread, right?

Enjoy Your High Protein Pumpkin Bread!

Okay, friends, that’s it! I hope you LOVE this high protein pumpkin bread as much as I do! Seriously, let me know what you think in the comments below! And if you make it, don’t forget to rate the recipe – it helps other bakers find it! Happy baking!

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