Embark on a culinary adventure with our Homemade Weight Watchers Cranberry Orange Bread – a meticulously crafted recipe that seamlessly combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy zing of oranges in a delightful loaf. This bread stands as a testament to the harmony of flavor and wellness, making it an ideal treat for those on a weight-conscious journey. Each slice unfolds a symphony of textures, from the moist crumb to the burst of cranberry sweetness, all while adhering to the principles of Weight Watchers. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this delectable creation, exploring the ingredients, measurements, step-by-step instructions, and the comprehensive nutritional details.

Ingredients:

For the Cranberry Orange Bread:

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Stevia or monk fruit)
  3. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  4. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  5. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  6. 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
  7. Zest of 1 orange
  8. 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  9. 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  10. 2 large eggs
  11. 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  12. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Glaze:

  1. 1/2 cup powdered sugar substitute (e.g., powdered erythritol)
  2. 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
  3. 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar substitute, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients until well incorporated.

Step 2: Incorporating Wet Ingredients

Add chopped fresh cranberries and the zest of one orange to the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix to maintain the bread’s tender texture.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Transfer the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the Cranberry Orange Bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Glazing Elegance

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar substitute, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest to create a luscious glaze. Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top, allowing it to set for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

Slice the Cranberry Orange Bread into generous portions, reveling in the enticing aroma and vibrant colors. Serve each slice as a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or a wholesome snack.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the loaf)
  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 3g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • Each serving is equivalent to 4 SmartPoints.

Health-Conscious Tips and Insights:

  1. Sugar Substitute Options: Opt for natural sugar substitutes like Stevia or monk fruit to maintain sweetness without added calories.
  2. Greek Yogurt Moisture: The inclusion of plain non-fat Greek yogurt adds moisture to the bread while contributing a protein boost.
  3. Cranberry Nutrients: Cranberries bring not only a burst of flavor but also antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health.

Conclusion:

Our Homemade Weight Watchers Cranberry Orange Bread is a testament to the idea that wellness and indulgence can coexist. Delight in the flavors of the season while adhering to your weight-conscious goals with this scrumptious creation. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea in the afternoon or as a delightful addition to your brunch spread, this bread invites you to savor the joy of mindful indulgence.