Are you craving the warm, comforting taste of freshly baked bread but trying to reduce sugar in your diet? Look no further! This sugar-free bread recipe delivers all the fluffy goodness without the added sugars, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meal plan. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and is packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delicious, homemade treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (only if using gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (or flaxseed meal for a different flavor profile)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to leaven the bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Add olive oil, applesauce, salt, and chia seeds to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine all the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour (and xanthan gum, if using gluten-free flour), mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This slow rise is crucial for developing the best flavor and texture in your sugar-free bread.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover again and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 7: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents a soggy bottom and allows the crust to crisp up nicely. Slice and enjoy your delicious, healthy, sugar-free bread!
Cooking Tips for the Best Sugar-Free Bread:
- Use a Kitchen Scale: For more precise measurements, weighing ingredients is recommended, especially the flour.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic but not overly developed.
- Check for Doneness: Use a bread thermometer to ensure your bread is fully baked. An internal temperature of 200°F (93°C) indicates it's ready.
- Proper Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent a crumbly texture.
Variations:
- Add Herbs: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Add Seeds: Experiment with different seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, for added texture and nutrients.
- Sweeten Naturally: For a hint of sweetness, try adding a mashed banana or a little maple syrup (use sparingly).
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 3-5 grams
This easy recipe provides a healthy alternative to store-bought bread, perfect for those following a sugar-free diet. Enjoy this delicious, homemade loaf with your favorite soups, salads, or simply on its own! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's both healthy and satisfying.