Low-Carb Coconut Flour Bread
Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on making WW Low-Carb Coconut Flour Bread—a perfect solution for those seeking a healthy, low-carb bread option that aligns with Weight Watchers (WW) dietary guidelines. This recipe is ideal for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle but who still want to enjoy the pleasure of bread. Our guide covers everything from ingredient selection and detailed instructions to nutritional breakdown and WW SmartPoints values.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
7 large eggs: Room temperature, for optimal mixing and binding.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and helps balance the taste.
1/2 cup coconut flour: The primary flour substitute, providing a low-carb and high-fiber base.
1/2 cup coconut oil: Provides moisture and a subtle coconut flavor; can substitute with olive oil if preferred.
1/4 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
1/2 tsp xanthan gum (optional): Adds elasticity and improves texture, though can be omitted if desired.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake your bread.
Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, crack 7 large eggs. Whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully combined. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth batter.
- Add Salt:
To the beaten eggs, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Salt enhances the overall flavor of the bread and ensures the taste is well-balanced.
- Incorporate Coconut Flour:
Gradually add 1/2 cup of coconut flour to the egg mixture. Coconut flour is highly absorbent, so the mixture will start to thicken as you combine the ingredients. Stir until the flour is completely integrated.
- Mix in the Oil:
Pour 1/2 cup of coconut oil into the mixture. If using olive oil, it will also work well, but coconut oil provides a slightly richer flavor. Stir the mixture until the oil is fully incorporated.
- Add Baking Powder:
Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder into the mixture. Baking powder helps to leaven the bread, making it rise and achieve a light, airy texture.
- Optional: Add Xanthan Gum:
If you choose to use xanthan gum, add 1/2 teaspoon to the mixture. Xanthan gum helps to improve the texture and elasticity of the bread, though it is not necessary if you prefer a simpler recipe.
- Mix Thoroughly:
Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and a smooth batter forms. The batter will be quite thick due to the coconut flour.
- Transfer to Loaf Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly and smooth the top. This ensures that the bread bakes evenly and has a consistent texture.
- Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean if the bread is fully baked.
- Check for Doneness:
If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Continue baking until the skewer test is successful.
- Cool the Bread:
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the bread to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
- Transfer to Wire Rack:
After the initial cooling, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy as it cools.
- Slice and Serve:
Once completely cooled, slice the bread into desired thickness. The bread can be used for sandwiches, toast, or enjoyed on its own.
- Store Leftovers:
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces for convenience.
- Nutritional Information:
Per Slice (assuming 10 slices per loaf):
Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Cholesterol: 105 mg
Sodium: 150 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 1 g
Protein: 5 g
- WW SmartPoints Value:
SmartPoints (Blue, Green, Purple): Approximately 4 points per slice. The SmartPoints value may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient quantities used. Adjust points as necessary based on ingredient variations.
- Customizing the Recipe:
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding herbs, spices, or seeds to the batter for additional flavor and texture. Some popular options include rosemary, garlic powder, or chia seeds.
- Troubleshooting:
If the bread is too dense, ensure that the coconut flour is measured correctly and not packed too tightly. If the bread is too dry, consider adding a bit more oil or adjusting the baking time.
- Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy this low-carb bread with your favorite spreads, as a base for sandwiches, or toasted with a bit of butter. It pairs well with a variety of toppings and makes a great addition to any meal.
Conclusion
This WW Low-Carb Coconut Flour Bread is a nutritious and versatile bread option that fits perfectly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an accessible choice for those looking to maintain a healthy eating plan while enjoying the comfort of freshly baked bread. With its low SmartPoints value, this bread is not only delicious but also aligns with Weight Watchers guidelines, making it a great choice for anyone looking to manage their weight and enjoy a satisfying, wholesome meal.