If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that feels indulgent but is actually nourishing, you have to try this Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe. Packed with tangy rhubarb, a hint of warm cinnamon, and the fresh brightness of orange, this bread is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s moist, subtly sweet, and offers a wholesome twist on traditional sweet breads thanks to its clever use of whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and natural fruit sweeteners. Whether you want a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert, this rhubarb bread will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each element plays a key role, from the flours lending the perfect crumb to the fresh rhubarb adding zing and color that makes every bite exciting.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness to the bread’s crumb.
- Whole wheat flour: Adds heartiness and a subtle nuttiness that boosts nutrition.
- Unsweetened coconut (medium): Offers texture and a touch of tropical flavor.
- Brown sugar: Brings natural sweetness with a hint of molasses depth.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Ensure your bread rises beautifully and stays light.
- Cinnamon: Gives a warm, cozy spice that pairs wonderfully with rhubarb.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds moisture and a bright citrus zing that lifts the entire bread.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt (0%): Keeps the bread moist while adding protein and tang.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the bread’s rich texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with sweet aroma.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a natural fat substitute adding moisture and subtle sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Helps maintain softness and tenderness.
- Orange zest: Intensifies the citrus notes and adds a pop of flavor.
- Fresh rhubarb (or thawed frozen): The star ingredient, offering tartness and vibrant pink color.
- Grated orange and additional coconut: Optional garnishes that add extra charm and texture.
How to Make Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and lightly spraying two loaf pans. This step ensures your loaves will come out clean, with no sticking, making the presentation as perfect as the flavor.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, unsweetened coconut, and cinnamon. Mixing the dry ingredients separately allows for an even distribution of leavening agents and spices, which is crucial for a consistent texture and flavor throughout your Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture brings moisture, zest, and a lovely tanginess that balances the tart rhubarb perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender and light. The batter should be thick but workable.
Step 5: Fold in the Rhubarb
Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb, making sure the rhubarb pieces are evenly distributed without breaking down too much. This step creates the signature bursts of tart flavor that make this Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Divide the batter evenly between the two loaf pans and place them on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on your bread after about 30 minutes; if the tops brown too quickly, lightly cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the centers finish baking. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and let cool for another 5 minutes. When completely cooled, you can garnish with freshly grated orange peel and extra shredded coconut for a beautiful, fragrant finish that elevates your Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe experience.
How to Serve Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra grated orange zest and unsweetened coconut on top not only amps up the aroma but also adds a pleasing texture contrast. You could also add a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate sweetness if you’re feeling a bit indulgent.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs fabulously with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a calm morning or afternoon break. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey and nuts, balancing indulgence with protein and fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn slices of Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe into a fancy brunch feature by toasting lightly and topping with ricotta cheese and a drizzle of honey. Or, cube it and serve as part of a wholesome bread pudding for a weekend treat that’s still surprisingly healthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe stays moist and delicious when stored properly. Keep leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this rhubarb bread over a longer period, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing that lovely texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your bread fresh from the freezer, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds to revive that freshly baked sensation without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I substitute rhubarb with another fruit?
Yes! While rhubarb gives this bread its signature tartness and texture, you can experiment with berries like strawberries or raspberries for a different but equally delicious twist. Just be mindful of fruit moisture content, as it may affect the bread texture.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely. Replace the flours with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, ensuring it includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain structure. Keep other ingredients the same for the best results.
Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well in this Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe. Just be sure to fully thaw and drain the rhubarb thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the bread soggy.
How sweet is this bread?
This bread strikes a nice balance, leaning on natural sweetness from brown sugar, oranges, and applesauce rather than intense sugar. It’s lightly sweetened, perfect for those who prefer a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With some swaps, yes. Use flax or chia eggs as an egg replacement, plant-based yogurt for the Greek yogurt, and substitute vegetable oil with a neutral vegan oil. Keep in mind the texture and taste may vary slightly but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a wholesome, flavorful baked good that’s both comforting and good for you, this Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe is a must-try. The bright citrus, warming spices, and tart rhubarb combine beautifully in a way that feels like a hug with every bite. I can’t wait for you to bake it, share it, and make it one of your favorite recipes too!
Print
Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Rhubarb Bread combines wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, fresh rhubarb, and non-fat Greek yogurt to create a moist, flavorful, and nutrient-rich bread perfect for breakfast or a snack. Infused with aromatic orange zest and a hint of cinnamon, this bread offers a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors, made healthier with reduced sugar and no refined fats.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut (medium)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (juice from about 1 large orange or 2 medium oranges)
- 1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (0%)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp orange zest
Fruit and Toppings
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½ inch pieces (or 1.5 cups if using frozen rhubarb, measured after defrosting and draining)
- Grated orange (for garnish, optional)
- Additional unsweetened coconut (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray two loaf pans with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, unsweetened coconut, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, non-fat Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixture: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture and gently mix until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
- Fold in Rhubarb: Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb pieces ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them down.
- Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops lightly.
- Bake: Place the pans on the middle rack of the oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. Start checking at 30-35 minutes; if the tops are browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center of the loaves; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
- Cool: Remove the loaves from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle grated orange and additional unsweetened coconut on top of the cooled loaves for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- To prevent soggy bread, ensure rhubarb is well drained if using frozen.
- If you prefer, you can substitute vegetable oil with a mild-flavored oil like canola or light olive oil.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
- Use fresh rhubarb when possible for the best texture and flavor.
- This bread keeps well stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage.
