If you’re looking for a fresh spin on quick breads that’s both nourishing and full of flavor, Healthy Rhubarb Bread is sure to delight you from the very first slice! This cozy loaf features tart rhubarb nestled into a tender, moist crumb, naturally sweetened with honey and amped up with Greek yogurt and whole wheat flour for wholesome goodness. The blend of cinnamon and nutmeg brings out irresistible warmth, and a scattering of nuts provides perfect crunch. Whether you’re new to baking with rhubarb or already a fan, this bread delivers comfort, nutrition, and a pop of bright pink for the ultimate breakfast, snack, or anytime treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Healthy Rhubarb Bread is a breeze, but every element plays a special role. From the tangy yogurt to the natural sweetness of honey, each brings its own character to the loaf, ensuring a flavorful, tender, and eye-catching result!
- Whole wheat flour: Adds fiber and a nutty depth for a wholesome crumb.
- All-purpose flour: Provides lightness and structure so the bread isn’t too dense.
- Baking soda: Reacts with acidic ingredients to help the loaf rise perfectly.
- Baking powder: Further lifts and softens the bread’s texture.
- Salt: Just a small amount sharpens all the other flavors.
- Cinnamon: Delivers cozy, aromatic warmth that pairs wonderfully with rhubarb.
- Nutmeg: A pinch deepens the spice profile and adds complexity.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add tenderness to the crumb.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that balance the rhubarb’s tartness without refined sugar.
- Olive oil or melted coconut oil: Lends moisture and a subtle, rich flavor.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Reduces the need for added fat while keeping the bread delightfully moist.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, sweet note that complements the fruit and spices.
- Greek yogurt: Provides protein, creaminess, and a gentle tang for a soft, luscious loaf.
- Diced rhubarb: The star of the show—adds bursts of tart, juicy flavor and gorgeous color throughout.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Bring a delicious crunch and added nutrition if you like a little texture.
How to Make Healthy Rhubarb Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s hot and ready when your batter is mixed. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for an easy, non-stick lift after baking. Don’t skip this step—it truly saves time and headaches when it’s time to serve!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mix ensures the leavening and spices are distributed evenly for consistent flavor and an even rise in every bite of your Healthy Rhubarb Bread.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they’re lightly foamy. Whisk in the honey (or maple syrup), oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. These wet ingredients are key to keeping the bread moist and flavorful without excess fat or sugar.
Step 4: Bring Batter Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into your bowl of wet ingredients. Stir gently, mixing until just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough. The batter will be thick and a little rustic, which is just how you want it!
Step 5: Add Rhubarb and Nuts
Fold in the diced rhubarb and, if you love a bit of crunch, the chopped walnuts or pecans. Do this step gently so the rhubarb stays evenly distributed and your Healthy Rhubarb Bread turns out beautifully pink-spotted in every slice.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. For a hint of extra sweetness and sparkle, sprinkle a little coconut or raw sugar on top. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Waiting is the hardest part, but the aroma will make it worth it!
How to Serve Healthy Rhubarb Bread
Garnishes
Dress up each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of honey. A few extra diced strawberries or slices of fresh rhubarb on the side look lovely and add a burst of color alongside this healthy treat.
Side Dishes
Healthy Rhubarb Bread is wonderfully versatile—try it with a bowl of vanilla yogurt and fresh berries for a balanced breakfast, or serve it with a scoop of cottage cheese and sliced fruit when you want a more protein-packed snack. It pairs beautifully with your favorite tea or coffee, too!
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch table, slice the loaf and fan the pieces on a rustic wooden board, decorated with edible flowers or fresh mint. Turn slices into mini tea sandwiches with a light cream cheese spread, or cube the bread for a vibrant yogurt parfait. Muffin versions are delightful for grab-and-go brunches or kids’ lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your cooled Healthy Rhubarb Bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It stays fresh and moist at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure the bread is completely cool before storing to prevent condensation.
Freezing
Healthy Rhubarb Bread is so freezer-friendly! Once completely cooled, slice the loaf and wrap individual pieces in foil or parchment, then place in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can grab a slice or two whenever a craving strikes—simply thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked taste, pop a slice of bread in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds before enjoying. This not only revives the moisture but also intensifies the soothing aroma of spices and fruit with every warm bite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well in Healthy Rhubarb Bread! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your batter, which can affect baking time and texture.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use regular yogurt (preferably strained for thickness), sour cream, or even a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a lactose-free option.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat and all-purpose flours. Double check your baking powder and baking soda to ensure they’re certified gluten-free as well.
How do I avoid overly soggy bread?
To prevent soggy Healthy Rhubarb Bread, make sure the rhubarb is diced small and any excess moisture is patted dry before folding it in. Also, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing—it helps the crumb set properly.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
Definitely! Simply scoop the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18 to 20 minutes. These mini versions are perfect for lunchboxes or quick breakfast bites.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the secrets to baking a loaf of Healthy Rhubarb Bread that’s both satisfying and nourishing, what are you waiting for? This recipe makes for a wonderful way to enjoy rhubarb’s unique zing, and your kitchen will be filled with incredible aromas as it bakes. Try it out, share a slice with a friend, and let healthy comfort become a new staple in your home!
Print
Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Rhubarb Bread is a delightful treat that balances wholesome ingredients with a burst of tangy rhubarb flavor. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this bread is moist, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Additional:
- 1 1/2 cups diced rhubarb
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat eggs, then mix in honey, oil, applesauce, vanilla, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Combine dry and wet mixtures: Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in diced rhubarb and nuts if using.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For added sweetness, sprinkle coconut sugar or raw sugar on top before baking.
- This bread freezes well—slice and wrap portions for easy breakfasts or snacks.
- Can also be baked into muffins with a reduced baking time of 18–20 minutes.
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