No Sugar Bread
This no sugar bread recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to indulge their love for baked goods while keeping health in mind. Perfectly moist and subtly sweetened with unsweetened applesauce, this bread allows you to enjoy a wholesome treat without the added sugar. The combination of whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and almond milk creates a delightful texture that is both hearty and satisfying.
You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an extra burst of flavor, making it a versatile addition to your breakfast or snack time routine. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier lifestyle or simply want to experiment with more natural ingredients, this no sugar bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweetened and free from refined sugar.
- Simple preparation with pantry staples.
- Customizable with nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
- Healthy source of whole grains and healthy fats.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side to soups and salads.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (360 g) whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup (60 ml) melted coconut oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ cup (75 g) chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Whole Wheat Flour: This flour adds fiber and nutrients. You can substitute it with spelt or a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
- Sweetener: The recipe relies on applesauce for sweetness. If you want more sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (note that this would change the sugar-free aspect).
- Oils: While coconut oil gives a subtle flavor, avocado oil is a neutral option that works well too.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches or 23×13 cm)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Parchment paper (for lining the pan)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, melted coconut oil, unsweetened almond milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined without overmixing.
- If you chose to include nuts or dried fruits, carefully fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Tips
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; some lumps are okay for a light texture.
- Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for proper rising.
- If using a glass pan, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain structure.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, for extra flavor.
Variations
- Herbed Bread: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for a savory twist.
- Spiced Bread: Mix in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor.
- Zucchini Bread: Grate an 8 oz (225 g) zucchini and fold it into the batter.
- Chocolate Chip Bread: Fold in sugar-free dark chocolate chips for a delightful addition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the no sugar bread sliced with a smear of natural nut butter or topped with your favorite fruit preserves. Enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a wonderful breakfast or snack option.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in a toaster or microwave until just heated through. For frozen slices, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Estimate
- Calories: Approximately 130 per slice
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 5 g
Recipe Summary Card
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Cuisine: Healthy
- Course: Breakfast / Snack
- Calories: Approximately 130 per slice
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the bread will be less nutritious. -
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based, making it vegan-friendly. -
Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Slice the bread and freeze individual pieces for quick snacks. -
How can I make it gluten-free?
Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free baking blend. -
What should I do if my bread is too dense?
Ensure you measured the flour correctly and not overmixed the batter.
Conclusion
This no sugar bread is the perfect blend of health and flavor, making it easy to enjoy a delicious loaf without the guilt. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or with a meal, this bread will surely satisfy your cravings. Embrace this easy recipe to create a wholesome treat that the whole family will love!