Hearty Harvest: Whole Wheat Walnut Bread with Spiced Pumpkin Spread

Embrace the essence of fall with the Hearty Harvest pairing, a comforting duo that combines the rich, earthy tones of whole wheat walnut bread with the creamy, aromatic delight of spiced pumpkin spread. This combination captures the heart of autumn's flavors, offering a nourishing and satisfying experience that's perfect for crisp mornings or cozy afternoons. The dense, nutty bread provides a wholesome base for the smooth, flavorful pumpkin spread, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that celebrate the season's bounty.

Ingredients:

For the Whole Wheat Walnut Bread:

- 2 cups whole wheat flour

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 cup brown sugar

- 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup warm water

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Spiced Pumpkin Spread:

- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

- 2 tablespoons maple syrup

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

- Pinch of salt

 

Instructions:

Whole Wheat Walnut Bread:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   - In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, yeast, and salt.

   - Add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

   - Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

2. Bake the Bread:

   - Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise again until puffy, about 30 minutes.

   - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

   - Let the bread cool before slicing.

 

Spiced Pumpkin Spread:

1. Mix the Spread:

   - In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cream cheese, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Beat until smooth and creamy.

 

Serving:

Slice the whole wheat walnut bread and toast lightly if desired. Spread a generous layer of spiced pumpkin spread on each slice. Garnish with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of autumn. The Hearty Harvest pairing is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a delightful addition to your fall gatherings. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this seasonal favorite, where each bite brings the flavors of autumn to life.