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As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crispness that signals the arrival of fall, there's no better way to embrace the season than with a warm loaf of Harvest Pumpkin & Walnut Spelt Bread. This delightful recipe is not just a treat for the palate; it embodies the essence of autumn with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Pumpkin & Walnut Spelt Bread

Embrace the flavors of fall with this Harvest Pumpkin & Walnut Spelt Bread! This warm, moist loaf combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the crunch of walnuts, creating a delightful balance that captures the essence of autumn. Made with nutritious whole spelt flour, it's not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional bread. Perfect for toasting or pairing with soups, this recipe is a wholesome treat to enjoy with family and friends. Discover the joy of baking your new favorite seasonal bread!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups whole spelt flour

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)

2 teaspoons instant yeast

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

Optional: 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for topping

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water with the instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole spelt flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cloves until well combined.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, honey (or maple syrup), and olive oil. Mix well until the ingredients are smooth.

        Form the Dough: Pour the frothy yeast mixture and the pumpkin mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough starts to form. Add in the chopped walnuts and mix until evenly distributed.

          Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more spelt flour as needed.

            First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

              Shape the Bread: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Place it on a floured surface, and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls.

                Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan (for a loaf) or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet (for rolls). Cover and let it rise for about 30-45 minutes until puffed up.

                  Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                    Bake the Bread: Optionally, sprinkle sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds on top of the loaf for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes for a loaf, or 20-25 minutes for rolls, until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

                      Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

                        Enjoy your deliciously nutty and flavorful Harvest Pumpkin & Walnut Spelt Bread with butter, jam, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite soups!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours (including rising times) | Servings: 1 loaf (makes about 10 slices)