Low Calorie Bread
If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and healthy bread option that won’t derail your dietary goals, you’ve landed in the right place! This Low Calorie Bread is not only light on calories but also brimming with wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Low Calorie Bread is a fantastic addition to your meal prep, thanks to its nutritious profile and versatility. Made with white whole wheat flour, wheat germ, and yogurt, this bread is packed with fiber and protein. It’s a smart choice for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. Plus, it’s easy to make in larger batches, allowing you to freeze some for later use. Who doesn’t love freshly baked bread that’s also good for you?
Gather These Ingredients
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour or whole wheat flour – This flour provides a nutty flavor and is higher in nutrients compared to all-purpose flour.
- 1/2 cup toasted wheat germ – Adds a rich, nutty taste and boosts the fiber content.
- 2 teaspoons salt – Enhances the flavor of the bread.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – A touch of sweetness to help the yeast activate.
- 2 packages active dry yeast (1/2 ounce) – This is the leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
- 2 cups warm water (45°C/113°F) – Activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
- 1 cup plain yogurt (room temperature) – Adds moisture and a subtle tang.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Provides healthy fats and makes the bread tender.
- 3 1/3 cups bread flour – Gives the bread its structure and chewiness.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking.
- Whisk – For mixing dry ingredients and activating the yeast.
- Loaf pan – To shape and bake your bread.
- Kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
- Oven – Preheated for baking perfection.
Low Calorie Bread — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, toasted wheat germ, and salt. This combination provides the nutritional foundation for your Low Calorie Bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the yogurt and olive oil until well combined. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the yogurt mixture and stir until blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, giving your bread its structure.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 10: Cool & Enjoy
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 Low Calorie Bread fresh, or store it for later!
Make It Your Way
- Add herbs or spices – Consider adding rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Incorporate seeds – Flaxseeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds can boost the nutritional profile.
- Use different flours – Experiment with spelt flour or oat flour for varied textures.
- Sweeten it up – Add honey or maple syrup for a subtly sweet variation.
Author’s Commentary
As someone who loves baking, I can’t emphasize how satisfying it is to make your own bread at home. This Low Calorie Bread recipe is a game changer! It offers a healthy alternative to store-bought varieties without sacrificing flavor. The combination of yogurt and wheat germ results in a moist, tender loaf that you’ll want to share with everyone.
Prep Ahead & Store
This Low Calorie Bread can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply toast slices directly from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature.
Quick Q&A
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
While you can use all-purpose flour, it will alter the nutritional content and flavor of your Low Calorie Bread. Whole wheat flour provides more fiber and nutrients.
What if I don’t have wheat germ?
If you don’t have wheat germ, you can substitute it with ground flaxseed or simply omit it. The bread will still turn out delicious!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a vegan sugar alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Your Low Calorie Bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
Final Bite
Incorporating this Low Calorie Bread into your meal plan is a fabulous way to enjoy baked goods without the guilt. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a step towards healthier living without compromising taste or texture. Whether slathered with your favorite spread or used to create a hearty sandwich, this bread is sure to be a hit in your home. Happy baking!
Low Calorie Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture - In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, toasted wheat germ, and salt.
- Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, mix the yogurt and olive oil until well combined. Add the yeast mixture once frothy.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 5: Knead the Dough - Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 6: First Rise - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Step 7: Shape the Dough - Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Step 8: Second Rise - Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it rises just above the rim of the pan.
- Step 9: Bake - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 10: Cool & Enjoy - Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for storage.
- Freeze slices for up to 3 months for later use.
- Add herbs or spices for extra flavor.
