To reduce the points on this bread while still keeping it delicious and flavorful, we’ll swap out some ingredients for lighter alternatives. This version is lower in fat and sugar while still tasting amazing!

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (lower glycemic index and higher in fiber)
  • 1/4 cup sugar substitute (like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or your preferred zero-calorie sweetener)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (chopped or whole)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (instead of oil to cut down on fat)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 large egg whites (instead of whole eggs to reduce fat)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, sugar substitute, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, orange juice, egg whites, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Fold in the Cranberries: Gently fold the chopped cranberries into the batter.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Serve: Slice and enjoy!

WW Points (per serving—based on 12 servings):

  • Points: 3 WW points per slice (this will vary depending on the exact ingredients and substitutions used)

Overview:

This WW-friendly Cranberry Orange Bread is a lighter version of the classic treat with a reduced sugar content and lower fat. The applesauce takes the place of oil to keep it moist, while whole wheat flour and sugar substitutes make it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. This bread is perfect for a lighter dessert or snack on your WW journey.