Are you craving a sweet treat that doesn't compromise your healthy lifestyle? Then look no further! This Heart-Smart Bisquick Shortcake recipe is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers all the fluffy, buttery goodness of a classic shortcake without the guilt. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy dessert – perfect for a weekend brunch or a light and satisfying after-dinner treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't sacrifice flavour.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk (skim or almond milk)
- 1 large egg white
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (such as stevia or erythritol) - adjust to your preference
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (optional, depending on berry sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, enhances berry flavor)
- Whipped topping (light whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg white, and vanilla extract. This ensures all the wet ingredients are well incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the Bisquick baking mix, sugar substitute, and baking powder (if using). Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough shortcake.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing will result in a tough shortcake.
- Bake: Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangular shape approximately 1/2 inch thick. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Slice: Let the shortcake cool slightly on the baking sheet before slicing into squares or rectangles. This allows it to firm up before serving.
- Prepare the Berry Topping: While the shortcake is baking, gently toss the fresh berries with the sugar substitute (if using) and lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions:
Once the shortcake has cooled slightly, top each piece with the delicious berry mixture and a dollop of your favorite whipped topping. For an even healthier option, replace the whipped cream with plain Greek yogurt. This simple addition adds a creamy texture and extra protein.
Tips for the Best Heart-Smart Bisquick Shortcake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough shortcake.
- Use fresh berries: Fresh berries provide the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar substitute to your liking. The sweetness of the berries will also influence how much you need.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with other fruits, such as sliced bananas or peaches, or a light drizzle of honey.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis, especially if you make substitutions.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Low
- Sugar: Low to Moderate (depending on the sugar substitute and berries used)
- Fiber: Moderate
This Heart-Smart Bisquick Shortcake recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for those seeking healthy and delicious food recipes. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, easy enough for beginners while satisfying the taste buds of even experienced cooks. Enjoy!