Pumpkin Spice Bread

Not only are pumpkins great for Thanksgiving dinners and Halloween activities, but they also possess many health benefits! I am a pumpkin lover and have a lot in my house right now, so I decided to experiment this weekend with a pumpkin bread. Check out my super simple and nutritious recipe below.

Fun Nutrition Facts about Pumpkin:

• Pumpkin aids in digestion (pumpkin is a great source of fibre, with ½ cup of pumpkin containing approximately 4 grams of fibre).

• They are a good source of potassium. Potassium rich foods are good for blood pressure control, as they lessen the effects of sodium.

• They contain high levels of carotenoids, which function as antioxidants and help control the growth of cells. Research has found that high consumption of foods with carotenoids may be connected to lower risk of some cancers.

• Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining normal vision and keeping the human skin healthy and youthful.

• Pumpkin is low in calories, about ½ cup of pumpkin contains only 30-40 calories. It makes for a great addition to smoothies, soups, stews, and healthy baked goods.

• More than 50% of pumpkin is water, so it also helps keep you hydrated!

Makes 1 loaf (~ 12 slices)

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 2 cups pumpkin puree

• 1.5 cups of whole wheat flour

• 1 tsp. baking powder

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• ½ tsp. salt

• 1 tbsp. pumpkin spice

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, but recommended)

Directions:

Preheat oven at 350 F

In bowl beat eggs well and gradually beat in sugar, apple sauce, and vanilla. Stir in pumpkin puree.

In a separate bowl mix together all dry ingredients and stir into liquid pumpkin mixture.

Pour batter into 1 greased loaf pan.

Bake at 350F for 50 to 60 mins and let cool for 10 mins in pan before removing.

Enjoy!

Nutrition Breakdown (per slice):

Calories: 162

Fat: 4 g

Carbs: 29 g

Fibre: 5 g

Sugars: 9 g

Protein: 3 g

Excellent source of vitamin A and a good source of iron!

Cheers to happy and healthy eating! :)

Until next time,

Eat Right Feel Right - Angela XO