Pumpkin Spice Chia Bread
Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Chia Bread wafting through your kitchen. This wholesome twist on traditional pumpkin bread not only fills your home with a cozy scent but also nourishes your body with nutrient-rich ingredients. I’m thrilled to share this delightful recipe with you — subscribe to receive it in your inbox and embrace the season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Spice Chia Bread is truly special for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is a glorious blend of spicy warmth that encapsulates fall, combined with the nutty crunch of chia seeds. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for families, making it an excellent choice for weekend baking sessions or a delightful addition to brunch. Plus, with whole wheat flour and oats, you can enjoy a treat that’s not just delicious but also packed with health benefits!
Ingredients
– 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup almond milk
Necessary Tools
– 9×5-inch loaf pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk and spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Parchment paper (optional)
– Toothpick for testing
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can substitute the whole wheat flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option or use agave syrup in place of honey. Want an extra burst of flavor? Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and chia seeds. This step fills your kitchen with an intoxicating smell of spice!
3. In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Mix until it’s well incorporated and creamy.
4. Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so keep it light and airy!
5. Carefully transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and a bit springy!
7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s hard to resist the temptation of slicing it warm!
Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Spice Chia Bread is delightful on its own or slathered with a touch of almond butter or cream cheese. Consider pairing it with a steaming cup of chai or rich coffee for an afternoon treat, or serve it at a cozy gathering with friends and family.
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results!
– Don’t skip the cooling process; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
– Experiment with spice levels by adjusting the pumpkin pie spice to your taste.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also slice and freeze it for a convenient grab-and-go snack! To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or toast it lightly.
FAQ Section
– Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes! Just ensure it is cooked and pureed for the right texture.
– Is it possible to make this vegan?*Absolutely! Replace eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup for sweetness.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Spice Chia Bread is a beautiful marriage of warm spices and wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect autumn treat to enjoy with loved ones. I hope you find as much joy in baking and eating this bread as I do! Please leave a review, share your photos, and tag this recipe on Pinterest or Instagram — I’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 slice):
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 8g
