Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, perfectly spiced mini loaf that tastes absolutely decadent but won't derail your health goals. These Skinny Pumpkin Cream Cheese Mini Loaves are about to become your new obsession – a magical blend of autumn flavors, wholesome ingredients, and irresistible comfort that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious. Whether you're a pumpkin spice enthusiast or someone looking for a nutritious breakfast or snack, these mini loaves are your ultimate culinary game-changer!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 Mini Loaves
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease 4 mini loaf pans with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, and honey. Whisk together until smooth and well incorporated, ensuring no cream cheese lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This helps remove any flour clumps and ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense, tough loaves.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Place the mini loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.
- Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. These mini loaves can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese and other ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Gentle folding prevents tough, dense loaves. Stop mixing as soon as dry and wet ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let loaves cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to prevent breaking.
- Storage Hack: For longer shelf life, wrap individual loaves in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.
- Customize Your Loaves: Try adding chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These mini loaves are perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or quick snacks throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg