Low-Fat Pumpkin Bars Or Bread
Delicious low-fat pumpkin bars or bread with warm cinnamon and sweet raisins, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixer bowl, beat together pumpkin, sugar, oil, and yogurt.
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Stir in the raisins.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also replace the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for added moisture without the fat. If you want to add more flavor, try mixing in some nutmeg or ginger. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend.
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin bars or bread are delightful served warm, topped with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For an added treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a side of fresh fruit. They also make a great addition to brunch spreads or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin bars or bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them for even longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Pumpkin Bars Or Bread contains roughly 128 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 778mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, using canned pumpkin puree is a convenient option and will yield similar results. Just make sure it's pure pumpkin without added spices or sugar, as those can alter the flavor and sweetness of your bars or bread.
How can I make these pumpkin bars more festive?
To make your pumpkin bars more festive, consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for crunch. You can also sprinkle some chocolate chips into the batter or add a cream cheese frosting on top for a richer taste. A sprinkle of powdered sugar also adds a nice touch for presentation.
Are these bars suitable for a vegan diet?
To make these pumpkin bars vegan, you can substitute the plain low-fat yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious vegan treat!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).