This low-calorie homemade bread is a healthier alternative to store-bought options, perfect for sandwiches or toast. Made with simple ingredients, it offers a light texture and satisfying flavor without the excess calories.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires basic baking skills. You can customize it with herbs or seeds to enhance the flavor.
Overview of Low-Calorie Homemade Bread
This low-calorie homemade bread serves as a delightful alternative to conventional store-bought options.
It’s perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed as toast.
Crafted with straightforward ingredients, this bread boasts a light texture and satisfying flavor while keeping calories in check.
With an easy-to-follow process, even novice bakers can create this wholesome loaf.
Customization is also an option; feel free to incorporate herbs or seeds to elevate the taste.
Ingredients for Success
The foundation of this bread lies in its simple yet nutritious ingredients.
Whole wheat flour is the star, providing essential nutrients and fiber.
A touch of honey or maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
Alongside the flour, warm water activates the yeast, ensuring the bread rises beautifully.
A sprinkle of salt enhances the overall taste, while olive oil contributes to the loaf’s moist texture.
Optional herbs or seeds can be added for an extra flavor boost.
The Baking Process
Creating this low-calorie bread is a straightforward process that can be completed in about an hour.
Start by activating the yeast, combining warm water, honey, and yeast in a small bowl.
Let it sit until frothy, signaling that the yeast is ready to work its magic.
Next, mix the dry ingredients, combining whole wheat flour and salt in a large bowl.
Once the yeast mixture is ready, combine it with the dry ingredients and olive oil.
Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture.
Rising to the Occasion
After kneading, allow the dough to rise in a greased bowl covered with a cloth.
This first rise takes about 30 minutes, during which the dough should double in size.
Once risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf, placing it in a greased loaf pan for the second rise.
The second rise lasts another 20-30 minutes, giving the dough time to develop further.
While this is happening, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Baking and Cooling
When the dough has completed its second rise, it’s time to bake.
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
The bread should turn a lovely golden brown and sound hollow when tapped, indicating it’s done.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This cooling process is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
This low-calorie bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
Slice it and serve with a small bowl of olive oil for dipping, perhaps sprinkled with herbs for added flavor.
It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a base for your favorite sandwiches.
With each slice containing only 80 calories, this bread allows you to enjoy a wholesome treat without the guilt.
Its light and airy interior make it a delightful addition to any meal, inviting you to savor every bite.
Easy Low-Calorie Bread Recipe
This bread is made using whole wheat flour and minimal sugar, resulting in a nutritious loaf that takes about 1 hour from start to finish and yields 12 slices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: herbs or seeds for flavor
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 80kcal per slice
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g