Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt

If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome and delightful baked treat, this Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt & Applesauce will quickly become your new favorite. Packed with the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice, it’s a beautifully moist bread that manages to stay light and nourishing thanks to Greek yogurt and unsweetened applesauce. Whether you’re craving a healthier breakfast option, a snack to accompany your afternoon tea, or a guilt-free dessert, this bread delivers rich taste without the heaviness, making it a true standout in any baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to making this pumpkin bread both accessible and flavorful. Each component plays an important role in creating the bread’s perfect texture, sweetness, and color.

• All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): The backbone of our bread, providing structure and crumb.
• Almond flour (½ cup): Adds a nutty flavor and tender crumb, making the bread moist.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Baking powder (3 tsp): Ensures your bread rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
• Sugar of choice (½ cup): Use monk fruit sweetener for a low calorie option that doesn’t sacrifice sweetness.
• Pumpkin pie spice powder (1 tsp): Or cinnamon powder; it delivers that iconic warm pumpkin flavor.
• Pumpkin puree (½ cup): Brings in natural moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
• Greek yogurt (½ cup): Adds protein and creaminess, while keeping the bread light and tender.
• Unsweetened applesauce (⅓ cup): A natural sweetener and fat replacer that keeps the bread moist.
• Light olive oil (3 Tbsp): Provides healthy fats and adds a subtle richness.
• Unsweetened almond milk (2 Tbsp): Or milk of choice, to blend the batter perfectly.

How to Make Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt & Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, which makes the bread easy to remove once baked. This small step prevents sticking and ensures your loaf comes out with a perfect crust.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, baking powder, sugar or sweetener, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients well at this stage helps distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly throughout the bread, giving you uniform flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, light olive oil, and almond milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly incorporated. This combination is essential—it delivers moisture and a creamy texture without adding excess calories.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until the batter is smooth and uniform; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light. Your batter will have a lovely, thick consistency ready to be baked into pure autumnal bliss.

Step 5: Bake Your Pumpkin Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on that golden crust emerging on top.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps the bread set perfectly and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt & Applesauce

Garnishes

While this bread is delicious on its own, you can dress it up beautifully with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt frosting for added creaminess and a hint of sweetness. A light sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts on top also makes for a pretty and tasty garnish that adds texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of chai tea or your favorite coffee, making it an ideal morning or afternoon pick-me-up. For a heartier snack, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a small cheese platter for an enjoyable balance of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt & Applesauce and serve it as mini finger sandwiches with a spread of nut butter or cream cheese. You can also toast slices lightly for added crunch and serve with a drizzle of honey or a smear of jam to make brunch extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep it away from direct sunlight to maintain moisture and freshness. This bread’s moist texture holds up nicely, so each slice stays invitingly soft.

Freezing

You can freeze this pumpkin bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To bring the bread back to life, warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly. This revives the flavors and texture, making it taste freshly baked all over again. Add a bit of butter or your favorite spread for an extra cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect here—it provides consistent moisture and flavor, making the baking process simple and reliable.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

While this recipe uses all-purpose flour and almond flour, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture, but it should still taste delicious.

How do Greek yogurt and applesauce reduce calories in the bread?

Greek yogurt and applesauce replace higher-fat ingredients like butter and oil while adding moisture and a tender crumb. This swap cuts down calories but keeps the bread wonderfully soft and flavorful.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips can give your pumpkin bread a delightful crunch or a hint of indulgent sweetness. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Is this pumpkin bread suitable for meal prep or on-the-go snacks?

Yes, this bread is fantastic for meal prep. Its moist texture and balanced flavors make it a satisfying snack you can grab anytime. It’s portable and stays fresh when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a slice of homemade pumpkin bread, and this Low Calorie Pumpkin Bread with Greek Yogurt & Applesauce takes that cozy feeling to the next level without the usual calorie load. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a slice of fall any time of the year. Whether it’s a morning treat, an afternoon delight, or a wholesome dessert, this bread will soon hold a special place in your heart and kitchen!

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