Name: Moist Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: ⅓ cup canola oil (Provides moisture and rich texture; vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.); ½ cup honey (Adds natural sweetness; can switch for maple syrup or agave nectar.); 1 large egg (At room temperature for best results.); 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (Keeps the bread tender and moist; avoid flavored yogurt.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances overall flavor; consider using vanilla bean paste.); 1 cup pumpkin puree (Use pure pumpkin puree—not pie filling.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Infuses the bread with a warm spice.); ½ teaspoon nutmeg (Adds a nutty depth that complements the pumpkin.); ¼ teaspoon cloves or allspice (Introduces additional warm spice notes.); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (Balances sweetness.); 1½ cups white whole wheat flour (Provides structure while keeping texture light; substitute all-purpose flour if needed.)

As the leaves begin to shift into shades of amber and gold, there’s nothing quite like the smell of warm spices wafting through the kitchen. This Moist Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread captures that essence of fall, making it the perfect companion for those cozy afternoons. By using Greek yogurt and pure pumpkin puree, this recipe not only brings a healthy twist to your comfort food cravings but ensures every slice is soft, tender, and full of rich flavor. It’s a wonderful way to surprise your family with a wholesome after-school snack or to elevate your morning coffee break. Are you ready to fill your home with scrumptious aromas and create a delicious fall staple? Let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe!

Why is Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread Amazing?

Moist and Tender: Each slice boasts a deliciously soft crumb, thanks to the Greek yogurt that keeps the bread moist without excess fat.
Healthy Twist: Using pure pumpkin puree and Greek yogurt means you can indulge guilt-free, making it a fantastic option for health-conscious bakers.
Inviting Aromas: The warm spices fill your kitchen with comforting scents that evoke the cozy fall season, creating the perfect atmosphere for gatherings.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to whip up a delightful treat in no time, leaving you free to enjoy more moments with loved ones.
Add a touch of magic by serving it warm with a drizzle of honey, or try using it as a base for French toast. For more fall flavors, check out delicious recipes like Pumpkin Scones Sweet or Vanilla Pumpkin Marshmallow.

Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

For the Batter

Canola Oil – Provides moisture and rich texture; vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness; you can switch it out for maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred.
Egg – Binds ingredients and enriches flavor; be sure it’s at room temperature for best results.
Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt – Keeps the bread tender and moist; avoid using flavored yogurt for this recipe.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; consider using vanilla bean paste for a more intense taste.
Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show; make sure to use pure pumpkin puree—not pie filling.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to give lift and lightness to the bread.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the bread with a warm, inviting spice.
Nutmeg – Adds a nutty depth that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
Cloves or Allspice – Introduces additional warm spice notes for a cozy flavor profile.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
White Whole Wheat Flour – Provides structure while keeping the texture light and healthy; all-purpose flour can be substituted if needed.

Now that you have all the essential ingredients, it’s time to bring this amazing Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread to life in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it’s warming up, take an 8×4-inch loaf pan and lightly coat it with cooking spray or grease it with oil, ensuring the surface is even. This ensures your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread will slide out easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup canola oil and ½ cup honey until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 1-2 minutes, and the consistency should be syrupy. Once mixed, add in 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt and 1 large room temperature egg, whisking until creamy and fully combined.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Flavorings
Now, stir in 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the yogurt-egg mixture. Mix everything together until smooth and homogeneous, which should take around 1 minute. You’ll want a velvety mixture that invites all the warm fall aromas into your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon cloves (or allspice), and ½ teaspoon kosher salt over the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold these dry ingredients into the batter without overmixing, as we want to keep it tender and soft.

Step 5: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add in 1 ½ cups white whole wheat flour to the batter, folding it in gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread retains a moist and fluffy texture. The batter should come together with a few visible streaks of flour remaining.

Step 6: Fill the Loaf Pan
Carefully pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepped loaf pan. Use a spatula to ensure it’s level across the top, which will help it bake evenly. Take a moment to admire the beautiful, rich color of your batter—it’s a sign of the deliciousness to come!

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this, tent the bread with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, then continue baking for another 25 to 35 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once your bread is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy the anticipation as the aroma fills your kitchen!

Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread! Let your taste buds guide you as you explore these scrumptious twists.

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich flavor. The nuts bring a delightful contrast to the soft bread.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavor. These melty morsels make each bite even more indulgent.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your batter. The warmth will surprise and excite your palate!
Almond Flour Option: Swap in 1 cup of almond flour for a gluten-free version, adjusting the liquid ingredients slightly to maintain a perfect batter. Your bread will still be moist and flavorful!
Cinnamon Swirl: Create a beautiful cinnamon swirl by combining ¼ cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon and layering it in between the bread batter in the pan. This adds a lovely visual and flavor dimension.
Dried Fruit: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet, chewy surprise in each slice. This complement to the spiciness of the bread will keep it interesting!
Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of 1 orange for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices in your bread. This refreshing note will elevate your baking experience!
Pumpkin Spice Boost: If you’re a fan of stronger spices, increase the ground cinnamon to 2 teaspoons and add ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a flavor-packed loaf that embodies the essence of fall.

Elevate your baking adventures and keep the flavors exciting by incorporating these variations into your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread! And for more pumpkin delights, you might enjoy Pumpkin Scones Sweet or even treat yourself with a scrumptious slice of Chocolate Pumpkin Butter.

What to Serve with Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread

Indulge in a delightful experience that enhances your warming slices of moist Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread, creating a complete autumn meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture harmonizes beautifully with the spiced bread, creating a comforting contrast.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots with a hint of maple syrup echo the bread’s flavors, offering a lovely, colorful side.
Fresh Spinach Salad: A light, zesty salad with citrus dressing balances the sweetness, bringing brightness to your cozy meal.

Elevate your enjoyment by pairing the bread with a warm beverage, like a spiced chai or pumpkin latte. The subtle spices in the drink will mirror those in the bread, creating a delightful flavor journey.

Spiced Chai Latte: The creamy, spiced notes complement the pumpkin and cinnamon in the bread, making each sip a joy.
Warm Apple Cider: This classic fall drink with its sweet and spicy profile enhances the overall experience perfectly.
Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of this tangy topping adds a rich element that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet bread.
Honey Drizzle: Just a touch of honey perched on top amplifies the natural sweetness of the bread, making each bite extra tantalizing.

Together, these pairings transform your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread into not just a snack, but a delightful celebration of autumn flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerating it in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the loaf pan and pop it into the oven. To maintain optimal freshness and prevent dry spots, consider pre-measuring your dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before you bake. This way, you’ll enjoy the same moist, delicious flavor of your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread with minimal effort on busy mornings.

Storage Tips for Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped tightly in plastic for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its moist texture and fresh flavor without refrigeration.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, store in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from the freezer for a quick treat.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm in a toaster for a delicious, freshly-baked experience.

Expert Tips for Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread

Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to ensure a tender texture.
Check Ingredient Temperature: Ensure eggs and yogurt are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter. Cold ingredients can make blending difficult.
Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree; pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread.
Tent with Foil: If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent with aluminum foil to prevent burning, allowing the inside to cook through properly.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps maintain moisture and flavor.

Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. Pure pumpkin provides the right texture and flavor without added sugars and spices, ensuring your bread remains delicious and healthy.

How should I store Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread to maintain its freshness?
For the best freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to avoid moisture loss. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any other odors.

Can I freeze Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread! I recommend slicing it first, then wrapping each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you need a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick treat. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What should I do if my bread turns out too dense?
If you find your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread is denser than expected, it might be that you overmixed the batter. I suggest gently folding the ingredients together until just combined to keep the texture light and tender. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh; expired baking soda can affect the rise and fluffiness of your bread.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe regarding allergies?
Yes, it’s important to note that this recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and wheat. If you’re making this bread for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using flax eggs as a substitute for the egg or try using gluten-free flour blends in place of white whole wheat flour. Be sure to check all ingredient labels to avoid any allergens.

How long do the spices last, and will they affect the flavor of my bread?
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can lose their potency over time. I recommend checking the expiration dates and replacing them if they’ve been in your pantry for more than 6 months. Fresh spices will enhance the flavor of your Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Bread, while older spices may create a muted flavor profile.