Strawberry Bread recipe that focuses on being low-carb, low-fat, and heart-healthy. I've used almond flour as the base to keep the carbs down and incorporated other ingredients known for their heart-healthy benefits.
Cuisine Type: International (Adaptable)
Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Low-Fat, Heart-Healthy, Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free almond flour)
Estimated Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices):
* Calories: 150-180
* Protein: 6-8g
* Carbs: 10-12g (Net Carbs: 6-8g, after subtracting fiber)
* Fat: 10-12g
Note: These are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients used and serving size.
Ingredients:
* 2 cups Almond Flour (blanched, finely ground)
* 1/4 cup Coconut Flour
* 1/4 cup Monk Fruit sweetener (or your preferred low-carb sweetener, adjust to taste)
* 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
* 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
* 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
* 3 Large Eggs
* 1/4 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (for moisture and binding)
* 1/4 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (or other plant-based milk)
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (optional, enhances strawberry flavor)
* 1 cup Fresh Strawberries, hulled and diced small
* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added heart-healthy fats and texture)
Equipment:
* 9x5 inch Loaf Pan
* Parchment Paper
* Mixing Bowls (large and medium)
* Whisk
* Rubber Spatula
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven:
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with coconut oil spray.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, sweetener, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Make sure there are no clumps.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
* In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using).
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
* Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
* Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
5. Add Strawberries and Nuts:
* Gently fold in the diced strawberries and chopped nuts (if using) into the batter. Distribute them evenly throughout.
6. Pour Batter into Pan:
* Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
7. Bake:
* Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
* If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
8. Cool and Slice:
* Remove the loaf pan from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
* Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the bread out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
* Once the bread is completely cool (this is important for slicing!), slice it with a serrated knife.
Serving Suggestions:
* Plain: Enjoy a slice of this bread as is for a light and satisfying snack or breakfast.
* With Spread: Spread with a thin layer of unsweetened almond butter, coconut butter, or a light cream cheese for added flavor and healthy fats.
* Toasted: Toast a slice for a warm and crispy treat.
* With Berries and Yogurt: Serve a slice alongside a dollop of plain Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries for a balanced and heart-healthy breakfast or dessert.
* As a Side: Serve a slice with a cup of herbal tea or coffee.
Tips for Success:
* Don't Overmix: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the almond flour (even though it's gluten-free, it can still become dense), resulting in a tough bread.
* Use Finely Ground Almond Flour: Coarse almond flour will result in a gritty texture.
* Cool Completely: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
* Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
* Sweetener Adjustments: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you may need to add a bit more.
Enjoy your heart-healthy and delicious Strawberry Almond Bread!
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