The Ultimate Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe: Moist, Flavorful & Easy to Make
Discover the delightful taste of spring with this incredibly Healthy Rhubarb Bread. It’s wonderfully light, exceptionally moist, and bursting with delicious flavor, making it a perfect treat without the guilt. We’ve packed it with wholesome ingredients like creamy Greek yogurt, unsweetened coconut, apple sauce, fresh orange zest and juice, and nutritious whole wheat flour, all beautifully spiced with cinnamon. This versatile quick bread is ideal for a wholesome breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or even a healthier dessert option. Its comforting aroma filling your kitchen will instantly make it a new family favorite!
Rhubarb season, typically from late April to early July, is a cherished time for bakers and home cooks alike. Its distinct tartness is simply irresistible, and this quick bread recipe celebrates it beautifully. The inspiration for this healthy rhubarb loaf comes from some of my other popular, health-conscious bakes, including my Healthy Rhubarb Muffins (Weight Watchers Friendly) and my much-loved Healthy Carrot Loaf. My aim was to create a recipe that captures the essence of rhubarb in a way that’s significantly lower in sugar and fat than traditional versions, allowing everyone to enjoy this seasonal delight guilt-free. This same desire also led me to develop my refreshing Rhubarb Overnight Oats recipe, expanding the ways you can incorporate this wonderful ingredient into a balanced diet.
Finding genuinely healthy rhubarb recipes that manage to cut down on sugar and fat without compromising on taste can be a challenge. That’s precisely what drove me to craft this particular recipe. I wanted to prove that “healthy” doesn’t have to mean “bland” or “boring.” And indeed, while this bread is notably healthier than many conventional rhubarb recipes you might encounter, it absolutely excels in flavor. From the moment it starts baking, the warm, sweet, and tangy aroma will waft through your home, leaving everyone anticipating that first delicious slice. This bread proves that a thoughtful combination of ingredients can deliver both nutritional benefits and an utterly satisfying culinary experience.
For this recipe, I personally used frozen rhubarb, which is a fantastic way to extend the enjoyment of rhubarb beyond its peak season. However, you can certainly use fresh rhubarb if it’s readily available. (Please refer to the NOTES in the recipe card for specific guidance on using fresh rhubarb.) I maintain a small rhubarb patch in my garden, but my plants usually don’t mature enough for harvesting until June, depending on the fluctuating weather conditions. So, during the earlier parts of spring, I rely on the last of my frozen rhubarb from the previous summer’s harvest. Typically, I find it challenging to source fresh rhubarb at local farmer’s markets or grocery stores until mid-to-late May, making frozen a convenient and equally delicious alternative for this recipe.
🥘Essential Ingredients for Your Rhubarb Bread
Crafting this delightful rhubarb bread starts with a blend of wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture, all while keeping it on the healthier side. Using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour provides a good balance of fiber and tender crumb. Greek yogurt and applesauce are key to adding moisture and richness with less fat, while orange juice and zest brighten the flavors. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create this amazing loaf:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut (medium shredded)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 1 large or 2 medium oranges)
- 1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (0%)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½ inch pieces (or 1.5 cups frozen rhubarb, measured AFTER it’s been defrosted and thoroughly drained) *
🔪Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Perfect Rhubarb Bread
Making this healthy rhubarb bread is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Following these simple steps will guide you through creating a delicious, moist loaf right in your own kitchen. Remember to read through all instructions before you begin to ensure a smooth baking experience!
Prep: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Prepare two standard loaf pans by spraying them thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring your bread won’t stick.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all your dry ingredients. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, unsweetened coconut, and cinnamon until they are well combined and there are no lumps. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and flavor.
In a separate, larger bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. Combine the vegetable oil, non-fat Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, vibrant orange zest, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended, creating a consistent base for your batter.
Gently add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Using a spoon or spatula, mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough bread. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and often preferred in quick breads for a tender crumb.
Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb pieces. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter. ***Note: If you are using fresh rhubarb, you might need to add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice to the batter IF it appears drier than the consistency shown in the accompanying photo. Fresh rhubarb can have varying moisture content.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Spread it out gently to ensure a level top, which will help the bread bake uniformly.
Bake the loaves on the middle rack of your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. The bread is done when a cake tester or a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to check for browning around 30-35 minutes to prevent the top from getting too dark.
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. For the best slicing results, wait until the bread is entirely cooled before using a serrated knife.
Hint: If you notice the top of your bread browning too quickly during baking (typically around the 30-35 minute mark), loosely tent it with aluminum foil and return it to the oven. This will protect the top from over-browning while the inside continues to cook through.
📖Creative Variations & Easy Substitutions for Your Rhubarb Bread
This healthy rhubarb bread recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or simply experiment with different flavors. Here are some popular variations and substitutions you can try:
- Lactose-free: If you’re sensitive to lactose, simply swap the regular Greek yogurt for a high-quality lactose-free Greek yogurt alternative. This ensures the bread retains its signature moist texture and tangy flavor without any digestive discomfort.
- Dairy-free: For a completely dairy-free version, opt for a plant-based yogurt substitute, such as a coconut milk yogurt alternative (like “So Delicious” brand) or almond milk yogurt. Ensure it’s plain and unsweetened.
- Greek Yogurt Alternatives: While non-fat Greek yogurt keeps this recipe lighter, you can certainly use regular plain Greek yogurt if preferred. It will add a bit more richness and fat but still provides excellent moisture and protein.
- Oil Choices: The recipe calls for vegetable oil, but you can easily substitute it with other neutral-flavored oils like canola oil or even melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice offers the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh oranges on hand, store-bought regular orange juice will work just fine. Make sure it’s 100% juice for the best results.
- Rhubarb Options: This recipe works beautifully with both fresh and frozen rhubarb. If using frozen rhubarb, remember to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the batter to prevent a watery bread. Check the NOTES in the recipe card for specific quantities.
- Mini Loaves: For charming individual servings or gifting, pour the batter into mini loaf pans. Baking time will need to be adjusted; start checking for doneness around 20-25 minutes.
- Muffins: Transform this recipe into delicious muffins! Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin. Bake for approximately 18 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean. Importantly, do NOT use paper liners as the muffins tend to stick; opt for silicone liners or parchment paper inserts instead.
🥗Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
This versatile Healthy Rhubarb Bread isn’t just a delight on its own; it pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and dishes, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Enjoy a slice with your morning cup of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing herbal tea for a comforting start to your day. For a more substantial meal or a delightful brunch spread, consider serving it alongside these complementary recipes:
- Old Fashioned Fruit Salad (with Honey Lime Dressing)
- Mediterranean Breakfast Burritos (Vegetarian)
- Healthy Breakfast Pizza Recipe (Egg White Pizza)
- Vegetarian Sheet Pan Huevos Rancheros
🍽Essential Kitchen Equipment for Baking Success
To successfully bake this delicious rhubarb bread, you’ll need a few common kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of the essential items you’ll want to have on hand:
- Mixing Bowls and Spoons: You’ll need at least two bowls (one large, one medium) for combining your wet and dry ingredients separately, along with sturdy spoons or spatulas for mixing.
- Whisk: An essential tool for thoroughly combining your wet ingredients and ensuring your dry ingredients are lump-free before mixing into the batter.
- Juicer: If you’re opting for freshly squeezed orange juice, a citrus juicer will make this task quick and efficient, extracting maximum juice and flavor.
- Zester: A zester is crucial for removing the vibrant zest from the orange, which adds a wonderful aromatic and citrusy note to the bread.
- Cutting Board: For safely chopping your fresh or defrosted rhubarb into uniform pieces.
- Bread Knife (Serrated): Once your bread is cooled, a serrated bread knife will allow you to slice through the soft, moist loaf cleanly without tearing or squishing it.
- Loaf Pans: This recipe yields two loaves, so you’ll need two standard loaf pans. Metal or ceramic pans both work well, just ensure they are properly greased.
*See recipe card for recommended equipment links and photos to help you gather what you need.
🌡️Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage is key to keeping your moist rhubarb bread delicious for days. Here’s how to best store your freshly baked loaves:
- Refrigerator Storage: Store this moist rhubarb bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To help prevent the bread from drying out, it’s best to slice off only the portions you need and keep the cut end covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Freezing for Longer: For longer storage, this rhubarb bread freezes exceptionally well. Once completely cooled, you can wrap whole loaves or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a Ziploc freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. Thaw frozen bread at room temperature or gently warm individual slices in a toaster or microwave.
👪Serving Size & Customization Options
This versatile quick bread recipe is designed to yield two standard loaves, with each loaf providing approximately 10 generous slices. This means you’ll get a total of 20 delicious servings, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. If you need to adjust the recipe quantity, you can easily half, double, or even triple the recipe. Simply click on the serving number in the recipe card and select your desired number of servings; the ingredient quantities will automatically adjust for your convenience.
Beyond loaves, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can choose to make one loaf and use the remaining batter for 12 delightful muffins. If baking muffins, adjust the baking time to approximately 18 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. A crucial tip for muffins: do NOT use paper liners, as the rhubarb tends to stick. Instead, opt for silicone muffin liners or parchment paper inserts for easy release.
🔢Weight Watchers Points & Healthier Choices
For those following the Weight Watchers program, this Healthy Rhubarb Loaf is a fantastic option, coming in at approximately 4 WW points per slice. This makes it a smart choice for a snack or light breakfast. If you’re looking to further reduce the WW points and calorie count, there are a couple of effective substitutions you can make. Consider replacing the brown sugar with a sugar substitute such as monk fruit or erythritol. Additionally, you can experiment with replacing all or part of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. I’ve personally tested replacing the oil with applesauce, and found it barely altered the texture, resulting in only a slightly denser loaf, but significantly reducing the points and fat content without sacrificing flavor.
💭Top Tip for Perfect Slices
For the cleanest, most uniform slices of rhubarb bread, patience is key! Always wait until the bread has cooled completely before attempting to slice it. Warm bread is much more fragile and prone to crumbling. Once cooled, be sure to use a sharp serrated knife (a bread knife is ideal) for effortless cutting.
🦺Important Food Safety Guidelines
When preparing any baked goods, especially those involving eggs, practicing good food safety is paramount to ensure a healthy and enjoyable experience. Always keep these guidelines in mind:
- Avoid using the same utensils or cutting boards on cooked food that have previously touched raw eggs or uncooked batter to prevent cross-contamination.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw eggs or any raw ingredients.
- Do not leave perishable food items, especially those containing eggs or dairy, sitting out at room temperature for extended periods. Refrigerate promptly.
- If you are using a gas stove for preheating or other cooking tasks, always ensure you have good ventilation in your kitchen.
- Never leave cooking food unattended on the stovetop or in the oven to prevent accidents.
For more detailed food safety information and best practices, please consult resources at USDA.gov.
⭐ Comments & Reviews: Share Your Experience!
Did you know that commenting on and rating recipes is one of the most impactful ways to support your favorite recipe creators? Your feedback helps others discover delicious dishes and encourages us to keep creating! If you absolutely loved this healthy rhubarb bread recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and a star rating in the recipe card below. We’d also be thrilled if you shared photos of your beautiful loaves on social media using the hashtag #foodmeanderings or by tagging @foodmeanderings! We love seeing your creations!
If you’re on the hunt for a truly delicious rhubarb bread recipe that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, one that’s lighter in calories and fat but rich in flavor, then this is the recipe for you. Give this healthy rhubarb bread a try; it’s a guilt-free pleasure you’ll want to bake again and again!
📋Healthy Rhubarb Bread Recipe
Print Recipe
Pin
Save RecipeSave Recipe
Rate
Add to Shopping ListGo to Shopping List
Equipment
-
whisk
-
cutting board
-
bread knife
-
grater
-
loaf pan
-
juicer
-
zester
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut (medium)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice * the juice from about 1 large orange about 2 medium oranges
- 1 cup non- fat plain Greek yogurt 0%
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½ inch pieces 1.5 cups if using frozen rhubarb (measured AFTER being defrosted and drained)
Garnish (optional)
- grated orange
- additional coconut
Instructions
NOTE: The photos in this recipe card will NOT print unless you set them to print by selecting “recipe image”
-
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F/190 degrees C. Spray 2 loaf pans with non-stick cooking spray.
-
In a separate bowl, stir the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, brown sugar, coconut, and cinnamon together.1 ½ cup all purpose flour, 1 cup whole wheat flour, ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut (medium), ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
-
In a large bowl, whisk together oil, greek yogurt, orange juice, orange zest, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract.½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice * the juice from about 1 large orange, 1 cup non- fat plain Greek yogurt, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 teaspoon orange zest, ¼ cup vegetable oil
-
Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
-
Fold in the chopped rhubarb.2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into ½ inch pieces
-
Pour into 2 separate prepared loaf pans.
-
Bake on middle rack for about 40- 50 minutes (or until a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean.)
-
If the bread is browning too fast on top (check at 30-35 minutes), loosely cover the top with aluminum foil and return to oven.
-
Cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then move to a cooling rack and cool for another 5 minutes or until completely cooled. Cut when completely cooled for best results.
Garnish (optional)
-
Sprinkle grated orange zest and additional coconut over the top of the loaf for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.grated orange, additional coconut
Notes
**Note: If you are using fresh rhubarb, its moisture content can vary. You may need to add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice to this recipe IF the batter appears drier than the consistency shown in the photos within the main post.
***Note on Muffins: This recipe can also be used to make one loaf and 12 muffins. Bake the muffins for about 18 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Important: Do NOT use paper liners for the muffins as they tend to stick; instead, use silicone liners or parchment paper muffin cups.
Calories from Fat 36
Nutrition
📋More Delicious Rhubarb Recipes to Explore
- Healthy Rhubarb Smoothie
- Rhubarb Squares
- Easy Rhubarb Pancakes
- Microwave Rhubarb Crisp (in a Mug)