Homemade Vegan Flaxseed Bread Recipe

Flaxseed bread is a nutritious and satisfying alternative to traditional wheat-based bread, and when made vegan, it becomes an even healthier choice, free from animal products while still packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Vegan flaxseed bread is a great solution for those following plant-based diets, and it can also be a wonderful addition to low-carb or gluten-free meal plans. With its rich, nutty flavor and slightly chewy texture, this bread makes an ideal base for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with your favorite spreads.

In this recipe, flaxseeds take the lead, offering an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. The use of simple, wholesome ingredients makes this bread both healthy and easy to prepare, while providing the benefits of a completely plant-based option. This homemade vegan flaxseed bread is also low in carbs and contains no refined sugars, making it perfect for anyone who wants to make mindful food choices without sacrificing taste.

This detailed, easy-to-follow recipe will walk you through the steps to create a delicious, vegan flaxseed bread at home. With minimal ingredients, no rising time, and only one bowl to clean, this bread comes together quickly and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Along with the recipe, we’ll dive deep into the health benefits of flaxseed and other ingredients, ensuring that you not only enjoy a tasty treat but also get plenty of nutrition with every bite.

Servings: 12 slices

Net Carbs per slice: ~3g
Calories per slice: 100

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

  • 1 cup flaxseed meal – Flaxseed meal, or ground flaxseeds, is the star ingredient in this bread. It’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, and provides a rich, nutty flavor. Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and inflammation reduction.
  • 1/2 cup almond flour – Almond flour is another key ingredient that helps create a soft, slightly crumbly texture in the bread. It’s low in carbs, gluten-free, and a good source of vitamin E, making it a great addition to this vegan bread.
  • 1/4 cup psyllium husk powder – Psyllium husk is rich in soluble fiber, which absorbs water and gives the bread structure. It helps create a light, airy loaf with a great texture while providing digestive health benefits.
  • 1 tsp baking powder – This helps the bread rise and gives it a fluffier texture. Without baking powder, the bread may turn out too dense.
  • 1/2 tsp salt – A pinch of salt helps balance out the natural nuttiness of the flaxseeds and enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
  • 5 tbsp ground flaxseeds (flax egg) – This acts as an egg replacer in the recipe, binding the ingredients together. To make the flax egg, simply combine 5 tbsp of ground flaxseeds with 1/3 cup water, allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes to form a gel-like consistency. This mixture mimics the binding and leavening qualities of eggs.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil – Olive oil adds moisture and a healthy fat to the bread. You can also use melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile, but either option will yield a soft, moist loaf.
  • 1/2 cup warm water – Hydrates the dry ingredients and helps activate the flax egg and psyllium husk powder. The warm water also helps to mix the dough more easily.
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – This ingredient reacts with the baking powder to help the bread rise and contributes to the slightly tangy flavor of the bread. It also helps with texture.

Equipment Needed:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Loaf pan (8×4 inches)
  • Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)
  • Oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the bread inside to help with even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. Using parchment paper makes it easier to remove the bread once it’s baked and helps prevent sticking. If you prefer not to use parchment paper, you can also grease the pan with coconut oil or vegetable oil to ensure the bread comes out smoothly.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:

  • 1 cup flaxseed meal
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup psyllium husk powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Whisk the dry ingredients together thoroughly to make sure everything is well combined. This step is essential to evenly distribute the psyllium husk powder and baking powder throughout the bread dough, ensuring consistent texture.

Step 4: Make the Flax Egg

To create the flax egg, combine 5 tbsp ground flaxseeds with 1/3 cup warm water in a separate small bowl. Stir the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The flaxseeds will absorb the water and form a gel-like consistency, mimicking the function of eggs in the recipe. This vegan “egg” not only helps bind the dough together but also provides additional healthy fats and fiber.

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the following wet ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • The prepared flax egg

Stir the wet ingredients together until well mixed. The flax egg will help to bind the mixture, and the oil will contribute to the moisture content, ensuring the bread remains soft and tender.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until everything is combined. The dough should be thick but spreadable. If the dough feels too thick, gradually add warm water a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the consistency of a dense dough that can still be spread into the loaf pan.

Step 7: Let the Dough Rest

Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes. This gives the psyllium husk and flaxseed meal time to absorb the moisture and helps the dough firm up. After this resting period, you should notice that the dough has thickened.

Step 8: Transfer to Loaf Pan

Transfer the dough into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the dough evenly across the top. The dough won’t spread much during baking, so it’s essential to shape it as evenly as possible in the pan.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should feel firm to the touch and have a slightly crisp crust. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so be sure to check the bread around the 30-minute mark to avoid over-baking.

Step 10: Cool the Bread

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a cooling rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the bread to firm up and slice more easily.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

After the bread has cooled, slice it into 12 even slices. You can store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze the slices for up to 2 months. To serve, enjoy it as toast, with avocado, or as a base for sandwiches.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice):

  • Calories: 100
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Net Carbs: 3g
  • Total Carbs: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Health Benefits of Vegan Flaxseed Bread:

  1. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes brain function. Consuming flaxseed bread regularly can contribute to your daily intake of these essential fats.
  2. Packed with Fiber: Both flaxseeds and psyllium husk are high in soluble fiber, which aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The fiber content also contributes to feelings of fullness, helping with weight management.
  3. Low Glycemic Index: Vegan flaxseed bread has a low glycemic index (GI), making it an excellent option for those managing their blood sugar levels. It’s also ideal for people on low-carb or keto diets because it doesn’t cause spikes in blood sugar.
  4. Rich in Antioxidants: Flaxseeds are packed with antioxidants, which protect your cells from oxidative damage and support