As Thanksgiving weekend approaches, it’s time to start planning delicious meals that bring comfort to your table. But why stop at the main meal? Breakfast can also be festive and nutritious! This year, try incorporating pumpkin into your morning routine with two mouthwatering recipes: Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Loaf (Gluten-Free) and Protein-Packed Pumpkin Spice Granola. Both are filled with pumpkin goodness, making them a great way to start your holiday mornings on a healthy note.
Why Pumpkin is a Nutritional Powerhouse
Pumpkin is more than just a symbol of fall; it’s also packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamins A and C, pumpkin helps support your immune system—perfect for the cooler months. It’s also a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Pumpkin’s natural sweetness pairs perfectly with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a flavorful and versatile ingredient. Plus, its vibrant orange color comes from beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Loaf (Gluten-Free)
Ingredients
½ cup coconut flour
2.5 tsp. of pumpkin spice or combine the following: 1 ½ tsp. cinnamon, ½ tsp. nutmeg, ¼ tsp. ground ginger, ¼ tsp. ground cloves
2 tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. sea salt
⅔ cup. pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
¼ cup. maple syrup or honey
½ cup olive or avocado, or coconut oil, melted
6 eggs, whisked
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Optional add-ins: ⅓ cup chocolate chips, walnuts or pumpkin seeds or a combo of all three!
Method
Preheat oven to 350F. Crinkle up a sheet of parchment paper into a ball, unwrap it, and press it into a loaf pan.
Combine all the dry ingredients (excluding the optional add-ins) in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients.
Then add the wet to the dry ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips/nuts/seeds.
Pour batter into loaf pan.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 60 minutes* or until a fork inserted into the middle comes out clean. It might seem a bit undercooked but allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, and then transfer to a cooling rack until completely cool.
Once cooled, slice and freeze.
*This recipe also works well as muffins. Decrease cooking time to 30 minutes.
Makes 10-12 slices
215 calories
6 grams protein
17 grams of fat
10 grams of carbs
2.5 grams sugar
Protein-Packed Pumpkin Spice Granola
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free for GF eaters)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I used LeanFit whey vanilla)
1 scoop chocolate protein powder (I used Vega protein + greens chocolate)*
1 cup almond flour
1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
1/3 cup sunflower seeds (sub in pecans, walnuts, almonds, etc.)
1/3 cup hemp seeds
1 - 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (it depends how pumpkin-y you want it :)
¼ tsp sea salt
1/4 cup coconut or olive oil
1/4 cup maple syrup (or sub agave or honey if not vegan)
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup craisins or raisins (optional)
*If you don't like the taste of protein powder, substitute one of the scoops, for more oats or almond flour.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix the oats, protein powder, almond flour, nuts, spices, and salt in a large bowl.
In a small glass bowl, combine the coconut oil, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree and whisk. Heat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Pour over the dry ingredients and mix until combined (if the mixture seems too dry, add in a bit more oil).
Spread the mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring at the halfway point (stirring in the dried fruit at this point so it doesn't burn).
Once the granola is golden brown (usually about 25 minutes), remove from oven and let cool completely. It will crisp up as it cools.
Transfer to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for a couple of weeks, or in the freezer for longer.
Enjoy as a topping on yogurt or chia pudding.
Makes 12, 1/3 cup servings:
222 calories
10 g protein
14 g fat
13 g carbs
4 g sugar
Adapted from Pumpkin Maple Pecan Granola
Both of these recipes are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them ideal for sustained energy throughout the long weekend. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a nutritious start to your day, these recipes are simple, delicious, and sure to please both kids and adults. Plus, pumpkin is naturally low in calories and nutrient-dense, helping you enjoy a guilt-free treat that still feels festive!
This Thanksgiving, take advantage of pumpkin season and treat yourself (and your guests) to wholesome, tasty breakfasts that will fuel your holiday in the healthiest way possible.
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