Brain blocks.

Very real, very annoying, and very unfortunate.

This weekend I specifically finished all of my homework, chores, and various to-do’s early in order to set some much-needed time apart for college essays.

However, the minute my fingers hit the keys of my keyboard I suddenly froze.

I had no idea how to start an essay that may or may not decide my future.

So- I took a much-needed break to post about something I can easily ramble on about for days- food!

This morning I created the best bread recipe that’s ever come out of my kitchen: this recipe for Pumpkin Bread.

Seriously people, you would never realize this pumpkin bread was healthy unless you read the ingredients list. It tastes that good.

I blame the pumpkin. Pumpkin just adds a layer of richness to anything it’s combined with, and in fact gives this bread its moist texture without the addition of a cup of vegetable oil or two sticks of butter.

On the other hand, I’m sure the multiple teaspoons of fall-themed spices I incorporated only increased the delicious factor! 😉

In my opinion, the inclusion of cinnamon in any recipe makes it that much better.

Looking for a lower calorie option to a favorite fall snack? Or maybe an excuse to put off thinking about college essays for the rest of the evening? This recipe is your answer!

Just don’t blame me when you eat it all in one sitting! 😉

Whole Wheat Pumpkin Bread

• 1 1/2 c whole wheat flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 3 tbs molasses
• 1 c stevia
• 1/2 c egg whites
• 1 c pumpkin puree
• 1/4 c natural applesauce
• 1/4 c melted coconut oil
• 1/3 c water

Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl. Then add molasses, stevia, egg whites, pumpkin puree, and applesauce and stir until smooth. Add coconut oil and water and stir until combined. Pour into a greased and floured 9 in x 5 in loaf pan. For 1 hour- 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 15 minutes, then slice and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (from myfitnesspal.com)

Calories: 106

Fat: 4g

Carbs: 15g

Protein: 3g

(Yields 15 servings)