Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but hesitant because of the calories? Then you're in the right place! This low-calorie bread machine recipe delivers delicious, fluffy bread without the guilt. Perfect for healthy meal prepping or a quick and easy dinner side, this recipe is a game-changer for those watching their weight. It's so simple, even beginner bakers will find it a breeze. Let's get started on this journey to healthy homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with additional whole wheat for a higher fiber option)
- 1/2 cup wheat bran (optional, adds fiber and nutrients)
Instructions:
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Prepare the bread machine: Grease your bread machine pan lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap.
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Activate the yeast: In the bread machine pan, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is alive and active, crucial for a successful rise.
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Add wet ingredients: Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture.
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Add dry ingredients: Add the salt, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour (or substitute), and wheat bran (if using).
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Select the dough cycle: Choose the "dough" cycle on your bread machine. This allows for a longer, slower rise resulting in a more flavorful and textured loaf. Consult your bread machine's manual for specific instructions as cycles can vary.
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Rise and bake: Once the dough cycle is complete, shape the dough into a loaf and place it back into the greased pan. Select the "bake" cycle on your bread machine. This typically takes around an hour, but again, check your machine's instructions.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Loaf:
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Water Temperature: Using water that's too hot can kill the yeast, resulting in a dense loaf. Too cold, and it won't activate properly. Aim for that perfect lukewarm temperature.
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Flour Type: Experiment with different flour combinations to find your preferred texture and flavor. Using entirely whole wheat flour will result in a denser loaf, while adding all-purpose flour will create a softer texture.
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Add-ins: Feel free to personalize this recipe! Add seeds like sunflower or flax for extra nutrients and crunch, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweeter twist.
Variations:
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Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a flavorful twist.
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Garlic Bread: Incorporate 1-2 cloves of minced garlic for a savory delight.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
These values will vary depending on the exact flours and additions used. This is an estimate using the recipe as written above.
- Calories: Approximately 80-90 calories
- Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4 grams
This recipe offers a healthier, delicious alternative to traditional bread. It’s a perfect example of how easy and fulfilling homemade cooking can be. Enjoy your freshly baked, low-calorie loaf! It's the perfect addition to any healthy meal or a satisfying snack. Experiment with different additions and make it your own!