How to Enjoy Pumpkin Bread Without Food Guilt: A Non-Diet Recipe for Fall

Nov 8, 2024

The dietitians at Confidently Nourished believe that food is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated, not feared or restricted. Our non-diet approach means we’re focused on satisfaction, flavor, and balance without falling into the traps of dieting. ICYMI, our email subscribers received this delicious pumpkin bread with crumble recipe, passed along from our dietitian, Maddie Scozzari – sign up here!

How to Enjoy Pumpkin Bread Without Food Guilt

 This recipe uses the original, rich ingredients that create both taste and texture. There’s no pressure to swap for low-sugar, fat-free, or “diet” versions unless those choices truly support your personal preferences or health needs.

While ingredient swaps have their place, we encourage you to enjoy the full experience of this delicious pumpkin bread just as it is. Intuitive eating principles like challenging the food police remind us that no food is inherently “good” or “bad.” Honoring your cravings with authentic ingredients helps build trust in your body’s ability to guide you, bringing both satisfaction and a more peaceful relationship with food in the long run. (Bonuslisten to this podcast by the dietitians at “What the Actual Fork” podcast to learn even more!)

How to Enjoy Pumpkin Bread Without Food Guilt

We know that developing this type of relationship with food can be challenging, especially with so many mixed messages. That’s why working with a dietitian can be so helpful. Our team is here to support you as you explore intuitive eating and make peace with food, including learning to trust yourself around all kinds of foods – like this delicious pumpkin bread! With guidance and support, you’ll feel more confident in nourishing your body without guilt or restriction, allowing you to enjoy food for its taste and satisfaction, rather than focusing on external rules or diet trends.

If you’re ready, schedule here and then enjoy this recipe!

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How to Enjoy Pumpkin Bread Without Food Guilt

Pumpkin Bread


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  • Author: Heather Lasco, RD
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf

Description

This recipe embraces the original rich ingredients that provide both taste and texture. There’s no need to substitute with low-sugar, fat-free, or “diet” versions unless those options genuinely align with your preferences or health needs.


Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/2 tsp salt

  • 2 tsp baking soda

  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves

  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice

  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)

  • 4 eggs, large

  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

  • 2/3 cup water

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Crumble Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon


Instructions

Instructions:

 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two 8×4 bread pans (Optionally, place parchment paper in the bottom and grease with baking spray).

  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger together.

  3. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; mix until combined.

  4. Add oil and mix until just combined (the mix will be dry).

  5. Add the eggs, 2 at a time, mixing after each addition (the mixture will still be somewhat dry).

  6. Add pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

  7. Divide the batter between the two bread pans. Set aside.

  8. For the crumble topping, in a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon together. Cut in the butter with a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

  9. Sprinkle the topping evenly over both batters.

  10. Bake for 55-65 minutes. (Cover with tinfoil if the crumble starts to brown too much.)

  11. Allow to cool completely before slicing, serving, and enjoying!

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
How to Enjoy Pumpkin Bread Without Food Guilt

Gentle Nutrition Facts

Here are some gentle nutrition facts about this pumpkin bread recipe, focusing on balance of nutrients, satisfaction, and nourishment rather than restrictive details:

  1. Carbohydrates for Energy:
    Carbohydrates in this recipe, like those from flour and sugars, provide the quick energy we need throughout the day. Pumpkin adds a natural, fiber-rich source of carbs that can help maintain steady energy levels, making this a satisfying treat that won’t leave you feeling depleted.
  2. Fats for Flavor and Fullness:
    The canola oil and butter in the recipe contribute essential fats that not only create a moist texture and rich taste but also help you feel full and satisfied. Fats are necessary for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamin A from pumpkin), making this bread a cozy, nourishing option.
  3. Protein for Structure and Satiety:
    Eggs bring structure to the bread and add a touch of protein, which helps with satiety and supports muscles, skin, and other tissues. Protein is often what rounds out a snack or meal, making it more satisfying.
  4. Vitamins for Wellness:
    • Vitamin A from pumpkin is great for vision, immunity, and skin health.
    • B Vitamins from flour and eggs contribute to energy metabolism, supporting brain health and mood balance.
  5. Fiber for Digestion and Satisfaction:
    The pumpkin puree provides fiber, a type of carbohydrate that supports gut health and keeps you feeling full. Fiber also slows down digestion, helping balance blood sugar levels and making this bread a little more sustaining.
  6. Spices for Flavor:
    Warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves don’t just add depth and seasonal flavor—they also contain antioxidants.

These gentle nutrition facts reflect a nourishing balance of macronutrients, vitamins, and fiber, making this pumpkin bread both flavorful and filling. Enjoying a slice as part of a balanced approach to eating allows you to fully experience the taste, texture, and satisfaction without any guilt.

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heather lasco confidently nourished dietitian

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