18+ Easy Homemade Bread Recipes Anyone Can Make - Foolproof Living https://foolproofliving.com/category/breakfast/homemade-bread-recipes/ Tried & True Recipes ยท No Refined Sugars Fri, 28 Nov 2025 21:06:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://foolproofliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/cropped-cropped-Foolproof-Living-Favicon-image-resized-32x32.png 18+ Easy Homemade Bread Recipes Anyone Can Make - Foolproof Living https://foolproofliving.com/category/breakfast/homemade-bread-recipes/ 32 32 Lavash Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/lavash-bread-recipe/ https://foolproofliving.com/lavash-bread-recipe/#comments Tue, 29 Jul 2025 21:19:46 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=82286 If you’ve ever been to a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean restaurant, chances are you’ve had lavash. Similar to pita, it’s…]]>

If you’ve ever been to a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean restaurant, chances are you’ve had lavash. Similar to pita, it’s the go-to bread for serving with kebabs, dips, and salads. Growing up in Turkey, I learned early on that you simply don’t eat kebab without a piece of warm lavash.

Yes, you can find it at the store, but once you taste a freshly cooked, puffed-up lavash straight from the skillet, there’s no going back. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you think.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making lavash bread, complete with foolproof tips and troubleshooting advice, so you can confidently make it at home anytime.

What is Lavash? A Journey Through This Ancient Flatbread

Lavash (or lavaş, as we call it in Turkey) is a soft, thin flatbread with ancient roots stretching across the Middle East and Central Asia. While the lavash bread recipe may vary slightly from region to region, it is a staple in many countries across the region, including Armenia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.

At its core, lavash is as simple as bread gets: just flour, water, salt, sugar, milk (optional), and yeast. But despite the short ingredient list, the result is anything but basic. 

Depending on where it’s made, lavash can be thick and chewy or paper-thin and crisp. 

My version here sits right in the middle; soft enough to wrap around your favorite kebabs but sturdy enough to use it as a utensil to scoop up dips and salads just like we do in Turkey.

Essential Ingredients for Lavash Bread

The traditional lavash bread recipes you’ll find in cookbooks are usually made with just three ingredients: flour, water, and salt. 

While that version is beautiful in its simplicity, it can take a bit more time and technique to get right. In my version, I use a small amount of yeast to help the dough rise more easily, a splash of milk for a softer texture, and a touch of sugar (or, in my case, honey) to feed the yeast and get it bubbling faster.

You’ll find the exact measurements of this homemade lavash recipe in the recipe card below, but here are a few essential notes and tips from my testing to help you get the best results every time.

Ingredients for the recipe are in small bowls from the top view.

Water: We use lukewarm water (around 110 °F – 43 °C) to activate the yeast. The temperature is important here because if it is colder, the yeast will not activate, and if it is hotter, it will kill it. 

Yeast: I use instant yeast in this recipe, but I still bloom it in warm water with a bit of honey to give it a head start. This step isn’t always necessary with instant yeast, but I’ve found it helps create a better rise and a more reliable dough. 

If you only have active dry yeast, you can use it the same way, just make sure it foams up before moving on.

Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps feed the yeast and encourages it to bubble up during the resting period. You can use granulated sugar, but I like to use honey to keep this recipe free of refined sugar. Either one will do the job.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: I use a little bit of extra virgin olive oil, mostly for flavor. It adds a subtle richness to the dough and helps keep the lavash soft. 

Milk: A small amount of milk makes the dough softer and adds a slightly richer texture. I use whole milk, but any kind you have on hand will work. Just make sure it’s at room temperature so it doesn’t interfere with the rising time. 

If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use water instead.

All-Purpose Flour vs. Bread Flour: The recipe I am sharing here is made with all-purpose flour, which yields a soft and pliable dough that is perfect for rolling kebabs. If you prefer a sturdier, chewier texture, you can swap in bread flour instead. It has a higher protein content, which gives the dough more structure.

Kosher salt: I used Diamond kosher salt, which is less salty than most kosher salts. If you use other brands, such as Morton’s, be sure to use half the amount. 

Step-by-Step: How to Make Lavash Bread at Home

Whenever I make any kind of bread, I always want to know how far in advance to start, especially if I’m planning to serve it for dinner. This easy lavash recipe takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish, including time to knead, rise, and cook. So if dinner’s at 7, starting around 5:30 pm is just right.

This recipe makes 10 lavash, just in case you are planning ahead or cooking for a crowd.

Here’s how to make lavash at home, step by step:

Yeast is activated and mixed with oil in a bowl.

Step 1 – Activate the Yeast: Place the lukewarm water (around 110°F / 43°C) and honey (or sugar) in a measuring cup. Stir well to make sure the honey is fully dissolved. Add the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until you see a grey-ish thick layer of bubbly foam on top. Then stir in the olive oil and milk until fully combined.

Wet ingredients are added into the dry ones and mixed.

Step 2 – Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough with clean hands for about 5 minutes, or until no dry flour remains. 

At this point, the dough (and your hands) will be sticky, and that is totally normal. As you knead, turn the dough frequently to ensure everything comes together evenly.

The bread dough risen and then kneaded.

Step 3 – First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel (or loosely with plastic wrap) and let it rise in a warm part of your kitchen for 20 minutes. By the end of that time, it should look a little smoother and slightly puffed in volume.

Step 4 – Knead the Dough: Lightly flour your kitchen counter and transfer the dough over. Knead it for about 5 minutes.

You don’t really need much of a technique here, but when I’m kneading it, I usually press the whole dough with the heel of my hand, push it away, fold it back over, and give it a turn. Then I just keep repeating that motion until the dough feels smooth and stretchy.

It shouldn’t be too sticky, but if it is, go ahead and sprinkle in a bit more flour, just a little at a time (no more than a tablespoon). You don’t want to use too much flour, as this can make your lavash too dry or stiff.

Alternatively, you can knead the dough in a stand mixer using the dough hook. However, keep in mind that you might not need to knead it as long. The visual cue to pay attention to is for the dough to be smooth and no longer sticking to the sides.

The dough rolled and cut into the balls.

Step 5 – Divide the Dough: Shape the dough into a log approximately 12 inches long and divide it into 10 equal pieces. When you go with 10, each lavash ends up being about 9 to 10 inches in diameter once it is rolled out and cooked. If your skillet is smaller, you can divide the dough into 12 and make slightly smaller ones.

You can totally eyeball it, but if you want all your lavash to be about the same size, a kitchen scale helps.

Grab a dinner plate and sprinkle it with a little flour. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on the plate. Then cover them loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rest for 20 minutes.

The lavash dough is rolled out.

Step 6 – Heat the Skillet & Roll Out the Dough: When you are ready to cook, heat a large (10- or 12-inch) nonstick or cast-iron skillet over high heat until it is really hot. This part is essential because if the pan isn’t hot enough, the dough will stick. You’ll know it is ready when a few drops of water sizzle and disappear almost instantly.

While the pan heats up, start rolling out the dough. Take one ball at a time and roll it into a 9- to 10-inch circle using a rolling pin. Do your best to keep it round, but I’ll be honest; it is a little tricky at first. 

The good news? It gets easier the more you do it, and honestly, a slightly wonky lavash still tastes just as good.

The lavash cooked in a skillet from the top view.

Step 7 – Cook the Lavash: Before you start rolling, grab a basket (a tortilla warmer works beautifully if you have one) or a bowl and line it with a kitchen towel. We need a place to store the freshly cooked lavash and keep it soft and warm. Set that aside.

Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the hot skillet. Within 10 to 15 seconds, you should see little bubbles start to form on the surface. Give it a flip, cook for another 10 seconds, then flip again. As it cooks and puffs, you’ll see golden brown spots start to appear, which is exactly what we want.

Keep flipping every 10-15 seconds, and cook for about 40-50 seconds total, or until both sides are cooked and it has some nice color.

Transfer the freshly cooked lavash to your prepared basket and cover it with the towel to keep it warm. Then just repeat the process (roll, cook, and store) for the remaining dough balls.

Expert Tips 

Roll it out thin: The key to getting soft, pliable lavash is rolling the dough really thin. I know it is tempting to focus on making a perfect circle, but honestly, thinness matters more than shape. Even if your lavash isn’t perfectly round, it will still taste great.

And if you have a pasta machine, that is a great shortcut to get an even, thin sheet of dough without too much effort.

Go easy on the extra flour: It is tempting to keep adding flour if the dough feels sticky, but try to trust the process and the visual cues I mentioned earlier. Only add more flour when the dough really starts to stick (especially while rolling), and try to work quickly. Too much flour can lead to stiff, dry lavash, and we definitely don’t want that.

Keep it warm: Don’t skip setting up a spot to keep the cooked lavash warm. Otherwise, while you are busy cooking the rest, the earlier ones will cool down and lose their soft, pliable texture. And you don’t need anything fancy; a basket or a bowl lined with a clean kitchen towel works perfectly.

Work faster with a buddy: The most time-consuming part of this recipe is rolling and cooking the lavash. But it goes a lot quicker (and is honestly more fun) if you have someone helping out. I usually rope my husband in. He is in charge of the skillets and cooks two at a time while I roll out the dough. Teamwork makes it so much easier.

Stay close while it cooks: These flatbreads cook fast, so it is important to keep a close eye on them, even while you are multitasking. I know you’ll likely be rolling out the next one while one is cooking (I do the same), but try not to turn your back on the skillet. It gets very hot, and things move quickly, so just stay aware, especially if you have young kids around.

Troubleshooting Common Lavash Baking Issues

While this lavash flatbread recipe is pretty straightforward, I ran into a few hiccups during testing, so I wanted to share some tips in case you experience the same. Here are a few common issues and what might be causing them:

Dough isn’t rising: After the first 20-minute rest, your dough should be slightly larger and less sticky. If that is not happening, chances are your yeast was not properly activated. This usually comes down to the water being too cold or too hot. If you don’t see bubbles on top during the blooming stage, it is best not to add that mixture to the flour and just start fresh with a new batch.

Dough is too sticky or too dry: Before the first rise, the dough will be sticky, and that is completely normal. After it rests and you begin kneading, it should smooth out and become easier to handle. 

A little flour on the counter is fine if it is sticking too much, but try not to overdo it. Too much flour can dry the dough and make the lavash stiff.

Lavash isn’t bubbling in the skillet: If you are not seeing bubbles after placing the dough in the pan, there are usually two possible reasons: either the skillet isn’t hot enough, or the dough was rolled too thick.

Serving Suggestions:

If you’re wondering how to use lavash, the short answer is anywhere you’d use your favorite flatbread. But like most bread recipes, there are so many other ways to enjoy it. Below are a few of my favorite recipes to pair with lavash:

Adana kebab rolled in lavash bread.

Kebabs: The most traditional way to serve lavash is as a wrap for kebabs, like my Turkish Adana Kebab and Homemade Doner Kebab. Its thin, soft texture makes it perfect for rolling, and it does a great job soaking up all the delicious juices from the meat. That said, you don’t have to stop at kebabs. Any grilled meat, like my Shish Tawook,  works beautifully wrapped in lavash.

Shawarma: Beyond kebabs, homemade lavash is the perfect wrap for your favorite shawarma recipes, such as my Chicken Shawarma or Beef Shawarma. Just roll up the meat with your favorite toppings for a delicious, handheld meal.

Scooping Mezes and Dips: While pita is often the go-to for serving with meze like baba ganoush, hummus, or muhammara, warm lavash is just as good, if not better. Tear off a piece and use it to scoop up the dips right off the plate. No spoon needed.

Breakfast: Lavash is also fantastic with a simple Turkish breakfast spread. I love serving it alongside cheeses, olives, Turkish eggs, and freshly sliced tomatoes and cucumbers. And if I feel like treating myself a bit, I sometimes even brush it with some melted butter while it is still warm.

Other versatile uses: Lavash is one of those breads you can serve with just about anything. Use it to dip into soups and stews, wrap up leftovers, or even turn it into a quick wrap. Any time you find yourself reaching for bread, lavash will do the job beautifully.

​​How to Store, Freeze and Reheat Lavash

I’ll be honest, lavash is best on the day that it is made while it is still warm. As it cools, it tends to lose its softness. That said, if you store it properly, it is still great the next day. Here’s how I do it:

Storage: Let the lavash cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container or sealable zip-top bag. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days.

Freezing: Once cooled, place the lavash in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag with sheets of parchment paper between each piece. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: You have two options here:

  • In the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly spray the lavash with water, place it on a baking sheet, and warm for 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through. You can reheat multiple pieces using this method.
  • In the microwave (my favorite method): Lightly wet two sheets of paper towel and wrap the lavash in between. Microwave for 30 seconds, then carefully remove the towels. If it needs a bit more time, repeat for another 10 to 15 seconds. When using this method, it is best to reheat your lavash one piece at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between lavash and pita?

Lavash and pita are both Middle Eastern flatbreads, but they’re not quite the same. Pita is usually thicker and bakes up with a pocket in the center, which makes it great for stuffing. Lavash, on the other hand, is thinner, softer, and more flexible, making it easier to use as a wrap.
Additionally, pita is usually cooked in a very hot oven, whereas lavash bread is often cooked on a skillet, griddle, or traditionally (especially in Armenia) in a tonir (or tandoor) oven.

Can I make lavash without yeast?

Yes, you can. I like to use yeast because I find yeasted dough to be easier to work with, but you can make lavash using only flour, salt, and oil.

Can I make lavash on a griddle?

Yes, you can. A griddle works just as well as a skillet, especially if you want to cook more than one lavash at a time. Some people even prefer to roll the dough into an oval shape to fit better on a rectangular griddle.

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Other Bread Recipes You Might Also Like:

If you’re a fan of lavash, chances are you love Middle Eastern breads just as much as I do. Here are a few more recipes from the archives:

  • Stop buying pita at the store and try making your own. It’s easier than you think. Check out my post on how to make pita bread, complete with foolproof tips perfect for beginners.
  • If you’ve ever had a traditional Turkish breakfast, you’ve probably had simit. Some people call it Turkish bagels, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite. This one’s worth your time.
  • No sourdough starter? No problem. My no-knead olive bread is one of the easiest, most hands-off bread recipes you can make. Just mix, let it rest, and bake.

Photos by Tanya Pilgrim.

Lavash bread in a basket from the top view.
Print

Lavash Bread Recipe

This easy lavash bread recipe is made with just a few basic ingredients you probably already have on hand and cooked on the stovetop until soft and lightly puffed. Perfect for wrapping kebabs, scooping dips, or serving with your favorite Middle Eastern dishes.
Course Bread
Cuisine Middle Eastern, Turkish
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rolling and resting time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 211kcal

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup warm water at 110 °F degrees
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 ½ teaspoon instant yeast aka quick rise yeast – (5g)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup whole milk at room temperature
  • 3 ¼ cups all purpose flour plus more for rolling (423 g)
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt 8g

Instructions

  • Place ¾ cup of warm water and 1 teaspoon of honey in a measuring cup. Stir to ensure that the honey is fully dissolved.
    The yeast activated and mixed with olive oil in a bowl.
  • Add the yeast and stir until it is well combined. Let it rest for 5 minutes. It will have a thick layer of bubbles on top.
  • In the same measuring cup, add ¼ cup olive oil and ½ cup milk. Give it a good stir. Set it aside.
  • Combine 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour and 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt in a large bowl.
    Dry ingredients are being mixed with the wet to make lavash dough.
  • Add the yeast mixture and knead for 5 minutes, first mixing the dough until no flour remains and then turning it into a ball. In the end, it will be a very sticky dough, and that is normal.
  • Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm part of your kitchen for 20 minutes. It will get slightly larger in size.
    The dough is placed in a bowl to rise and a person is kneading it.
  • Transfer the now-rested dough to a lightly floured surface.
  • To knead the dough, press it with the heel of your hand, then push it away, fold it back over, and rotate it 45 degrees. Repeat this process for 5 minutes or until the dough is smooth. If it’s too sticky to work with, sprinkle in a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
  • Shape the dough into a log and divide it into 10 equal pieces.
    The dough is cut into smaller pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a ball, dust it with flour, and transfer it onto a plate. Loosely cover the plate with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 20 minutes.
  • When you’re ready to cook, heat a large (12-inch) nonstick or cast-iron skillet over high heat for 5 minutes. The pan needs to be very hot to keep the dough from sticking. To test, flick a few drops of water into the skillet. If they sizzle and disappear right away, it’s ready.
  • While the pan heats up, roll out one dough ball into a 10-inch circle using a rolling pin and more flour as needed. As you roll, it might be tricky to keep a perfect circle, and that’s totally fine. Just do your best.
    Lavash dough rolled out with a rolling pin.
  • Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the hot skillet. Cook for 10 seconds (you’ll see bubbles forming), then flip. Cook for another 10 seconds, then flip again. Repeat for a total of 3-4 flips or until it looks fully cooked and has golden spots.
    Lavash cooked in a skillet from the top view.
  • As soon as it’s done, wrap the warm lavash in a clean kitchen towel and place it in a basket to keep warm. Continue adding each cooked piece to the basket, keeping them wrapped so they stay soft and warm while you finish the rest.
  • Repeat the same rolling and cooking process with the remaining dough balls.

Video

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe yields 10 lavash, each approximately 9 to 10 inches in diameter. The nutritional values below are per piece.
  • Storage: Bring the leftover bread to room temperature and store in an airtight container (or a Ziploc bag) for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: You can reheat in a low-heat oven (325°F) for 8-10 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. Or you can wrap it in a lightly wetted paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. 
  • A word on the yeast: I used instant rapid yeast as I find that it blooms faster but active dry yeast can also be used.
  • This recipe was adapted from Betul Tunc’s cookbook Turkuaz Kitchen’s lavash recipe with minor changes.

Nutrition

Calories: 211kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 298mg | Potassium: 79mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 2mg
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Cottage Cheese Flatbread https://foolproofliving.com/cottage-cheese-flatbread/ https://foolproofliving.com/cottage-cheese-flatbread/#comments Thu, 06 Mar 2025 14:31:19 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=80245 If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve probably noticed that cottage cheese is having a major comeback.…]]>

If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve probably noticed that cottage cheese is having a major comeback. This viral cottage cheese flatbread recipe, created by Francesca Aralla of HealthyMumWay, is a perfect example of why—it’s simple, high in protein, and incredibly versatile.

Cottage cheese flatbread used as a wrap.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe for cottage cheese flatbread calls for only 2 main ingredients—seriously, it’s that simple. A 2-ingredient recipe that takes only 5 minutes to prepare is a lifesaver for those who love to meal prep and for busy weeknight dinners. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for the recipe from the top view.
  • Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: The full-fat 4% version of cottage cheese works best in this recipe, giving it the desired end texture. My favorite cottage cheese brands are Good Culture, Trader Joe’s, and Daisy. If you prefer to use 2%, Good Culture is a solid choice.
  • Eggs: I tested this recipe using large whole eggs, which is what I recommend. However, if you want to make cottage cheese flatbread with egg whites, you can do so—just be aware that your protein flatbread will end up being lighter in both color and flavor. 
  • Optional—Salt: I don’t include this as a main ingredient, as adding salt will be determined by the type of cottage cheese you end up using. Some types of cottage cheese are saltier than others, so be sure to taste your cottage cheese before adding any additional salt. If you do, just a pinch will do. 
  • To Prep Pan—Cooking Spray: Have a can of cooking spray handy to ensure your baked cottage cheese flatbread doesn’t stick to the baking sheet. I prefer avocado oil spray. 

Optional Add-Ins

This simple cottage cheese flatbread recipe is endlessly customizable. Depending on which toppings, spices, sauces, and ingredients you choose to use, you can turn this into a wide variety of meals. 

A little tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and cheese—you’ve got pizza. Choose hummus, cucumber, and red onion for a Mediterranean twist. You get the idea. Here are some of my optional add-in suggestions you can try:

  • Seasonings & Spices: Give your keto cottage cheese flatbread a bolder overall flavor by using garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika or a seasoning blend like Italian seasoning. 
  • Fresh herbs: Chop up some fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and taste. You can use fresh basil is you are using this flatbread as “pizza crust.”
  • Cheese: While this is already a high protein flatbread recipe, some additional cheese will up the overall grams of protein and add a rich flavor. Feel free to add two tablespoons of either grated Parmesan cheese or grated mozzarella. 
  • A Sweet version: While the viral recipe is served as a savory cottage cheese flatbread, I have also made a sweeter version by adding a pinch of cinnamon, a teaspoon of vanilla, and a touch of honey for a breakfast-style flatbread.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Flatbread?

It only takes a couple of simple steps to make this low carb cottage cheese flatbread. Here’s how:

  1. Prepare your baking sheet & oven: Preheat the oven to 350° degrees F. Next, line a small sheet pan (I used a quarter sheet pan, which is 9 ½  by 13 inches) with parchment paper and spray the sides with cooking spray. Do not skip this step, as both of these elements make sure your high-protein flatbread will not stick to the pan. Without them, it would be hard to remove and keep them in one piece. Once ready, set it aside.
A collage of images showing how to make flatbread with cottage cheese and eggs.
  1. Blend your cottage cheese mixture: Place one cup of cottage cheese, two whole eggs, and a pinch of salt (plus any of the optional add-ins you want) into the bowl of your food processor. Pulse it 6-7 times in one-second intervals until it is fully incorporated but not pulverized; you do not want to liquify it. It is okay to have small pieces of cottage cheese remaining. If you do not have a food processor, you can use a hand mixer, a whisk or a blender.
  2. Spread your egg and cottage cheese flatbread: Pour the mixture onto the parchment-lined sheet pan and spread it into an even (ideally 8 by 11 inch rectangular) layer using a spatula or the back of a spoon. An even thickness is essential for even cooking. 
  3. Bake it in the oven. Bake it in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until it is lightly golden brown. Then remove it and let it cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan. Serve it by itself, as a sandwich wrap, or as a pizza base, following the suggestions below.

How to Serve it?

This is the best cottage cheese flatbread recipe because—here’s the fun part—you get to use your creativity and choose how you want to serve it. Here are three options to get you started: 

Two ways to serve cottage cheese flatbread; as a wrap and as a pizza base.
  1. Enjoy it as is. It’s a delicious high-protein snack served plain.
  2. Make a Sandwich: Any of your favorite sandwich toppings will work here. I like to spread it with a thin layer of mayo (or mustard) and then place three slices of provolone cheese, 2 slices of deli meat (turkey or chicken breasts are my favorite), some lettuce, and some sliced tomatoes. Gently roll the cottage cheese bread wrap around the ingredients, and then cut it in half before serving. You can also use a pre-made mix, such as chicken salad with mayo instead, which is popular on Instagram and TikTok.
  3. Make a Pizza: For a cottage cheese flatbread pizza recipe, here’s what to do: After 30 minutes of baking, remove it from the oven and then spread it with ½ cup of marinara sauce (or plain tomato sauce),  ½ to ⅔ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 12-15 slices of turkey (or regular) pepperoni. Put it back in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted, for about 4-5 minutes.

How to Store Cottage Cheese Flatbread

This cottage cheese flatbread recipe comes together so quickly that it’s easy to make fresh the day you plan to serve it. However, if you would like to make larger batches to meal prep, here’s how to store any extras you may have:

  • Storage: Once cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend that you place parchment paper in between any stacks of flatbread that you have to prevent them from sticking together. 
  • Reheating: Leftover flatbread with cottage cheese can be enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or warm. If you wish to eat it warmed up, place it on a parchment-lined sheet pan in a low-heat oven of 300 degrees F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed all the way through. 

FAQs

How long to cook cottage cheese flatbread?

The overall cooking time really depends on the thickness of your cottage cheese mixture and what size pan you’re using. If you spread it out in an evenly thin layer about 8” by 11” in size as I did, it will take about 30-35 minutes to cook. If you decide to use a smaller pan and thus have a thicker layer of the mixture, your cooking time will need to be longer.

How long does it last?

If stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your flat bread with cottage cheese will last for up to 3 days. 

How many calories in cottage cheese flatbread?

One serving of this egg and cottage cheese flatbread recipe is 166 calories, with 17 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, and 4 grams of carbohydrates. 

Can you freeze it?

Technically, yes, you can freeze it, though I prefer to serve it the same day it’s made. For the meal preppers making large batches who wish to freeze them, my main tip is to place parchment paper in between the layers of flatbread, then wrap them all in stretch film/plastic wrap to keep out moisture.

Expert Tips

While this is a very uncomplicated recipe, here are a few notes to help ensure your cottage cheese flatbread comes out as beautifully as it did in my test kitchen: 

  • Let it cool for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This will allow your flatbread to set and be easier to handle. Otherwise, it may stick to the paper and potentially tear when peeling it off.
  • Thickness and time of cooking time matters. If you follow this recipe’s instructions, you’ll be spreading your mixture out into roughly an 8”x11” rectangle on your quarter sheet pan. If you end up using a smaller pan, your flatbread will be thicker and require a longer baking time. 
  • Texture matters. When mixing your eggs and cottage cheese together, resist the urge to overmix them. You want the mixture to maintain a little thickness, which means some small chunks of cottage cheese are okay. You don’t want to completely puree and liquify the mixture in your Vitamix or blender. Just a few pulses of the blender, food processor, or immersion blender will suffice. 
  • How to make air fryer cottage cheese flatbread: If you’re not looking for perfection, feel free to make this recipe in your air fryer. Due to the smaller space inside the air fryer, you will want to make half a batch of this recipe at a time, so ½ cup of cottage cheese with only one whole egg. Cook it at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. At that point, check on your flatbread, and if it isn’t cooked enough, give it another 15 minutes. When you take it out, allow it to cool before handling it and serve.
  • If you’re using egg whites, take note. Egg whites will result in a lighter flatbread. Both the color/appearance will be lighter than you see in the main recipe pictures (though the air fryer photos show an egg white version), and the flavor itself will be less robust. 
  • Be careful about adding salt. Many brands of cottage cheese are salty enough on their own and don’t require any additional salt. Taste your cottage cheese before you add any extra salt. In my recipe testing, both Good Culture and Trader Joe’s cottage cheese didn’t need any added sodium.
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If you make this flatbread with cottage cheese recipe, I would greatly appreciate it if you could take a minute to rate it and leave a comment below. It is a great way to support this website and help those planning to make it. Also, if you took pictures, I’d love to see them. Share your creations on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them with the Foolproof Living community.

Photos by Tanya Pilgrim.

Cottage cheese flatbread topped off with deli meat, tomatoes and microgreens.
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Cottage Cheese Flatbread Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, high-protein, and gluten-free flatbread alternative, this 2 ingredient Cottage Cheese Flatbread recipe is for you! Made with just two main ingredients—cottage cheese and eggs—this viral recipe is low-carb, keto-friendly, and packed with 17 grams of protein per serving. While it’s not a traditional bread, it is a great alternative as a satisfying base for wraps, sandwiches, and even pizza.
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 166kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese 4%
  • 2 large eggs
  • Pinch of Salt* optional
  • cooking spray

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a small sheet pan (I used a quarter sheet pan, which is 9 ½ by 13 inches) with parchment paper and spray the sides with cooking spray. Set aside.
  • Place one cup of cottage cheese and two whole eggs (plus any of the optional add-ins you want) into the bowl of the food processor.
    The batter in a food processor before and after it is mixed.
  • Pulse 6-7 times in one-second intervals until thoroughly incorporated but not pulverized. We do not want it to be fully liquid; it is okay to have small chunks of cottage cheese.
  • Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it in an even (ideally an 8-inch by 11-inch rectangular) layer using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
    The batter spread on a sheet pan before and after it is baked.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until it is lightly golden brown.
  • Let it cool for 5 minutes and carefully remove it from the pan.
  • To serve you have three options. You can:
    1. Enjoy it as is.
    2. Make a sandwich: Spread it with a thin layer of mayo (or mustard) and then place any of your favorite sandwich toppings. I like to start with three slices of provolone cheese and then layer it with two slices of deli meat (turkey or chicken breasts are my favorite) and some lettuce and sliced tomatoes. Gently roll and then cut it in half before serving.
    3. Make a Pizza: After 30 minutes of baking, remove it from the oven and spread it with ½ cup of marinara sauce, ½ to ⅔ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 12-15 slices of turkey (or regular) pepperoni. Put it back in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted, for about 4-5 minutes.
    A collage of images showing how to use cottage cheese flatbread as a sandwich wrap and pizza base.

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes one flatbread that is about 8 by 11 inches, which is ideal for 2 servings. The nutritional facts below include the 2 ingredients listed in the recipe. They do not include the optional wrap or pizza ingredients.
  • Adding salt: Be sure to taste your cottage cheese before adding salt in the mixture. Most cottage cheese is already salty. 
  • Storing leftovers: Once cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you make a few batches, I recommend placing a sheet of parchment paper between stacks of your flatbread to prevent them from sticking together. 
  • Reheating: You can serve this flatbread warm or cold. If you prefer to serve it warm, place it on a parchment-lined sheet pan in a low-heat oven of 300 degrees F for 5 minutes or until warmed all through. 

Nutrition

Calories: 166kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 182mg | Sodium: 393mg | Potassium: 170mg | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 385IU | Calcium: 112mg | Iron: 1mg
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Homemade Pita Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-pita-bread-recipe/ https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-pita-bread-recipe/#comments Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:49:41 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=77885 Pita bread—also known as Arabic bread, Lebanese bread, and Mediterranean pita—is a must-have for any Middle Eastern meal. However, it’s…]]>

Pita bread—also known as Arabic bread, Lebanese bread, and Mediterranean pita—is a must-have for any Middle Eastern meal. However, it’s not the only homemade bread that comes together in a cinch. I have dozens of easy no knead bread recipes to fill out any menu, whether you need a rich brioche or a flaky biscuit.

Several freshly baked fluffy pita bread on top of each other.

What is Pita Bread Made Of?

There are only six simple ingredients in pita bread, making this recipe a cost-effective way to flex your baking skills (and it tastes so much better than store-bought pita!).

Ingredients for pita bread from the top view.
  • Water: It’s essential that your water is lukewarm (about 105-110 degrees F. or 40-43 degrees C) before adding it to your pita mixture. If the water is too hot, you’ll kill the yeast, but if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t “bloom.”
  • Active dry yeast: I used active dry yeast in this pita dough recipe, which required me to “activate” the yeast before adding other ingredients. Of course, you can use instant dry yeast, but your dough will rise more quickly, and the recipe’s timing will be shorter.
  • Granulated sugar: Sugar is vital among your pita bread ingredients, as it helps activate and fuel the yeast (in addition to giving it a lightly sweet, tender flavor!). To make this recipe refined sugar-free, you can use cane sugar instead.
  • All-purpose flour: I used all-purpose flour in my pita, but you may use bread flour instead if desired. However, keep in mind that bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which can give your pita a slightly chewier texture and a bit more structure. I would stick to all-purpose flour for light and tender pita bread, similar to store-bought pita bread.
  • Olive oil
  • Kosher salt 

How to Make a Pita Bread Recipe From Scratch?

You don’t have to work in a bakery to make pita bread like a pro. These step-by-step instructions will give you perfectly fluffy, golden-brown pita pockets, no matter how you want to cook pita bread: in an oven or on a skillet.

A collage of images showing how to prepare (bloom the yeast) Arabian bread.
  1. Activate the yeast: Add the water, yeast, and sugar to a large mixing bowl and stir until combined.
  2. Add the first cup of flour: Add 1 cup (120 g.) of flour and the olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir until smooth, breaking up as many flour crumbs as possible and scraping down the bowl’s sides when necessary. 
  3. Let it rest: Once integrated, cover the mixture with a kitchen towel and let it rest until it begins foaming and forming bubbles (about 15 minutes).
A collage of images showing how to make shawarma bread dough.
  1. Add the remaining ingredients: Add the remaining two cups (240 g.) of flour and the salt. Then, use a wooden spoon or clean hands to incorporate the dry ingredients until a sticky ball forms (approx. one minute). Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel, place it in a warm place, and let the pita bread dough rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Fold the dough: Hold one edge of the dough with your fingertips, then fold it halfway towards the middle of the ball. Turn the bowl 45 degrees and repeat this step until you complete a full turn. In the end, your dough should be smooth and elastic.
Steps showing how to prepare the pita bread dough for baking.
  1. Add the olive oil: Drizzle one teaspoon of olive oil over the ball, rotating the dough and spreading the oil until the entire surface has an even coating. Cover the dough again and let it rest in a warm place until it doubles in size—about one hour.
  2. Separate the dough: Dust your work area with 3-4 tablespoons of flour, transfer the dough to the floured surface, and knead it until it forms a smooth ball (30-40 seconds). Then, use a bench scraper or sharp knife to divide the dough into eight equal pieces, with each piece weighing about 71 g.
Steps showing how to roll the dough for gyro bread.
  1. Form the pita balls: Form each of the eight pieces into a ball, then place them on your work surface with their seam sides facing down. Cover the dough balls and let them rest for 20 minutes. They will slightly grow in size.
  2. Roll the pita bread rounds: Use a floured rolling pin to gently flatten each dough ball into a 6-inch circle, ensuring you don’t press so hard that the air bubbles flatten. Brush any excess flour off of your pita rounds and let them rest, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
A collage of photos showing pita baking in the oven.
  1. Cook the pita dough:
    1. Bake the pita bread: Adjust your oven’s rack to the lowest position, place an upside-down baking sheet or pizza stone on top, and preheat the oven to 500 degrees F. Then, cut a large sheet of parchment paper into eight 6 x 8-inch squares and place each pita on its own sheet. Working with two rounds at a time, place the loaves and their parchment paper squares on the hot baking sheet. Bake the dough for 2.5 minutes, flip it over, and cook for another 2.5 minutes or until it puffs and is lightly browned. Remove the baked pitas from the oven and repeat the process with the remaining dough.
    2. Make a pan pita recipe: Heat a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat for ten minutes or it is super hot. It is imperative that your skillet is hot for the pita to puff. Then, lightly coat the bottom of the skillet with one teaspoon of olive oil. Place the dough onto the hot skillet one pita round at a time and cook it until bubbles form (about one minute). Then, flip the pita, cook it for one minute, and flip it one more time. Cook the bread for a final 30 seconds before removing it from the heat. Repeat this process until you cook all of the remaining loaves.
  2. Enjoy: Serve your fresh pita bread warm or store it for later use.

How to Store, Freeze, Thaw, and Reheat Pita Bread?

Making pita bread is a rewarding experience that doesn’t end when it’s fresh out of the oven! Not only is this recipe delicious right out of the oven, but it’s also a fantastic recipe for storage and freezing—just the thing for anyone who loves easy meal prep.

  • Make ahead: Want to turn this dough into an overnight pita recipe? Simply make your pita dough one day in advance and store the raw dough in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. Take it out an hour before you are prepared to turn it into balls, and follow the recipe as written.
  • Storage: To store cooked pita bread, let it come to room temperature and place it in an air-tight container. The bread will then stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: When freezing your DIY pita bread, begin by letting the loaves cool to room temperature. Then, wrap them in plastic film and transfer them to a freezer-safe Ziploc bag with as much air removed as possible. Your pita will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
  • Thawing and reheating: You don’t need to thaw your frozen pitas before reheating. Instead, place them directly into a toaster or low-heat oven (300 degrees F.) for 3-4 minutes or until heated.

FAQs

What is pita bread?

Pita bread is a soft, light, and puffy bread with roots in the Middle East. In particular, this bread is known for its hollow, “pocket”-like center, which makes it a classic bread for savory fillings like shawarma, doner kebabs, and gyros.

Where is pita bread from?

Pita bread originates in the Middle East—particularly in the area of ancient Mesopotamia. Since then, however, this recipe has become a staple in many different countries’ cuisines, leading to a wide variety of names—“Middle Eastern bread,” “Mediterranean bread,” and “Syrian bread,” just to name a few.

Does pita bread have yeast in it?

Yes, traditional pita bread recipes need yeast to help the bread rise and give it its iconic “pocket”—where many fill it with savory additions, like shawarma, gyros, or other cooked meats.

How to make pita bread soft?

If your cooked pita bread ever becomes “hard” or “stale,” you can restore its softness by wrapping it in a damp cloth and placing it in a microwave or low-heat oven until warm. You can also help prolong your bread’s soft texture by placing your loaves in a plastic bag right after they’ve cooled from the oven. 

Is there egg in pita bread?

Pita bread typically doesn’t contain eggs. Instead, it traditionally includes a mixture of water, yeast, flour, and salt—a great recipe for those who are looking for a vegan bread option.

Is pita bread Greek?

Not quite. Pita bread is native to Middle Eastern regions, but it has since become popular in Greek cuisine—especially as a “gyro bread”—which leads many to think that it comes from Mediterranean areas.

Aysegul’s Helpful Tips

I might be biased, but I believe I shared the best way to make a homemade pita recipe here. However, there are a few things that I’d like to bring to your attention for succeeding on your first try. In this section, you’ll find everything you need to achieve the fluffiest, tastiest, and most authentic taste.

  • Digital scale: If you have a digital scale, I highly recommend using it for this quick pita bread recipe. It is especially helpful when dividing the dough into small bowls, helping you achieve evenly sized pita pockets.
  • Lukewarm water: Water temperature is the key to letting your yeast work its magic. Be sure to use lukewarm water (about 105-110 degrees F.), as too-hot water will kill the yeast, and too-cold water will keep the yeast from blooming.
  • Bottom rack vs. top rack: Direct heat is necessary when developing beautifully browned pocket bread. Therefore, you should always bake your pita on the bottom rack of your oven—not the top—and be sure to place parchment paper under each of your pita rounds while baking.
  • Maintaining the oven temperature: The best way to make fluffy pita bread with an open pocket is to keep the oven consistently hot. Be sure to set your oven to 500 degrees F. (or 450 degrees F., depending on how hot your oven can get). I also recommend baking two pita rounds at a time to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet (or pizza stone).
  • A word on browning: When we tested this recipe, we tried to achieve a golden brown color during baking. However, regardless of how many times we tried, increasing the amount of oil and sugar or even the baking time resulted in a light golden-yellow color. So, in short, the color you see in the photos is true to what you will end up with when you make this recipe.
  • Using whole wheat flour: To make a whole wheat pita bread recipe, mix one cup of whole wheat with two cups of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour is heavier, and using too much will prevent your pita bread from rising or developing its signature “puff.”
  • Gluten-free: To make this pita recipe for gluten-free diets, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour. Here in the US,  Bob’s Red Mill’s gluten-free 1-1 baking flour (affiliate link) is a good brand you can use.
Pita pocket on a cutting board with other pita bread.

What to Do With Pita Bread

A staple in my house, pita bread is one of the most versatile ingredients in my pantry. Below are a few of my favorite recipes with pita bread—from hand-held pockets to party-ready flatbreads.

  • Fill the pockets: It goes without saying that making pita pockets is one of the most classic uses of pita bread—especially when packed with authentic Middle Eastern flavors! I love filling my pita with succulent, savory meats, like Beef Shawarma, Chicken Shawarma, and gyros. Or, you can make a tender, light lunch by using one of my favorite easy pita bread fillings: my Chickpea and Tuna Sandwich recipe!
  • Make a wrap: Making a pita wrap is another one of my go-to meals using pita bread. Tasty, customizable, and portable, this serving option is excellent for on-the-go lunches and weeknight dinners alike. I especially like to use freshly baked pitas to make Pita Wraps with Chicken—a succulent, flavorful dish you can dress up with my Tzatziki or Tahini Lemon Sauce.
  • Make chips: You can easily transform this pita bread bake into appetizer-ready pita chips by drizzling the loaves with olive oil, seasoning them with salt and pepper, and baking them until crispy—just like I do in my Mediterranean Nachos Recipe. Or, you can use it as a crunchy-soft addition to your favorite homemade Cava bowl recipes.
  • Serve with dips: Light, tasty, and versatile, this easy homemade pita bread is just what you need to fill out a dip platter. This Middle Eastern bread is especially delectable when paired with classics like my smoky Baba ganoush, creamy Hummus, tangy CAVA Feta dip, or savory-sweet Muhammara.
  • Serve it as bread: Fluffy, light, and fully dip-able, pita bread makes an excellent accompaniment to saucy dishes, soups, and stews. You can make a gourmet Indian meal with ease by serving your pita along with curry dishes, like Chicken Chickpea Curry, or you can use it to sop up every last drop of internet-famous Alison Roman’s Stew.
  • Make pizza: You don’t need to deal with complicated pizza dough when you have this simple pita recipe on hand. With a few simple toppings, you can make a pita flatbread to rival any carryout pizza.

More Bread Recipes

If you make this Homemade Pita Bread recipe, I would greatly appreciate it if you could take a minute to rate it and leave a comment below. It is a great way to support this website and help those planning to make it. Also, if you took pictures, I’d love to see them. Share your creations on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them with the Foolproof Living community.

Several pita bread placed on top of each other from the front view.
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Homemade Pita Bread Recipe

Once you make this Homemade Pita Bread Recipe you won't ever buy it from the store because it is not only easy to make, but also light years better. So, go ahead, make a batch use some for your favorite shawarmas, wraps, flatbreads or mezze platters and store (or freeze) the rest for later.
Course Bread
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Diet Vegan
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Resting tim 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 46 minutes
Servings 8 pitas
Calories 191kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup luke-warm water 240 ml. (105-110 degrees F.)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast 7 g.
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 4 g.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour 360 g., divided, plus more for dusting
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil plus 1 teaspoon to coat
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  • To make the dough, stir together water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl until combined.
  • In the same bowl, stir in 1 cup (120 g.) of flour and olive oil until smooth, breaking up most of the flour crumbs and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 15 minutes or until it starts to form bubbles.
  • Add the other 2 cups (240 g.) of flour and salt. Using a wooden spoon (or clean hands), mix to incorporate until a sticky ball forms, approximately 1 minute.
  • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.
  • Holding the edge of the dough with your fingertips, fold it over halfway towards the middle. Turn the bowl at 45 degrees and repeat the same process until you complete a full turn. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
  • Drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil on top, rotate the dough ball, and spread the olive oil to cover the whole thing. Cover and let the dough rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, about an hour.
  • To prepare the dough balls, dust your work area with a small amount (3-4 tablespoons) of flour.
  • Transfer the dough and knead it for 30-40 seconds or until it forms a smooth ball.
  • Using a bench scraper (or a sharp knife), divide the dough into eight equal pieces, about 71 to 74 g. each.
  • Form each piece into a ball and place them on the lightly floured work surface with the seam sides down. Cover the balls and let them rest for 20 minutes.
  • To prepare the oven, adjust your oven rack to the lowest position. Place a baking sheet upside down (or a pizza stone) on the wire rack. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.*
  • Cut a large sheet of parchment paper into eight 6 by 8-inch squares.
  • Using a floured rolling pin, gently flatten each ball into a 6-inch circle. Do not press down too hard so you retain the air bubbles.
  • Brush any excess flour off before placing them on a square piece of parchment paper. Let them rest, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
  • You can bake it in the oven or cook it on a cast iron skillet:
    Using the oven method: To bake the pita, work with two pita rounds at a time, and place the pita loaves with the parchment paper on the hot baking sheet. It is important to work quickly to maintain the oven temperature and allow the pita to “steam” open and create a pocket. Bake for 2 minutes and 30 seconds, flip over, and cook for another 2 minutes and 30 seconds, until lightly golden brown. Remove and repeat this process with the remaining dough.
    Cooking it in a skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat for 10 minutes. It should be very hot. Using a brush or paper towel, lightly coat the bottom of the skillet with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Place a pita dough loaf onto the skillet and cook for 1 minute or until bubbles form. Flip and cook for an additional minute. Flip one more time and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from the skillet and repeat until all loaves are cooked. You don't need to add more oil each time, but if the pan starts to look dry, you can add just a little bit more.
  • Serve while they are still warm.

Video

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes 8 loaves of pita. The nutritional values below are per pita.
  • Using a standing mixer: You can make this recipe using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Instead of working the dough with your hands, simply follow this recipe with your mixer set at low speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Begin by mixing the water, yeast, and sugar for one minute. Then, mix in one cup of flour and olive oil until the dough becomes smooth (approximately one minute). After letting the dough rest for 15 minutes, add the remaining two cups of flour and salt and mix the dough until it forms a ball. When the dough separates from the bowl and begins attaching to the dough hook (in about a minute or so), you can remove it from the mixer’s attachment and let it rest for 30 minutes or until ready to fold. 
  • Gluten free: You can use a 1-1 gluten-free flour to make this recipe. We tested it with Bob’s Red Mills brand, and it worked well.
  • Fluffy pita pockets (troubleshooting): Two main factors to getting fluffy, soft pita bread are kneading and your oven’s temperature. Firstly, don’t skip on the last kneading, and don’t overwork your dough. If you press it too hard when rolling it, you may deflate the dough’s bubbles, leading to flat pita loaves. Secondly, keep your oven as hot as possible while baking, moving quickly to avoid any temperature decreases. Though these steps should ensure fluffy pita pockets, they’ll still be delicious even if they don’t puff up.
  • High-temperature oven: Knowing that not all ovens can reach 500 degrees F., we tested this recipe at 450 degrees F. The timing was slightly longer, with about 30 seconds more cooking time on each side of the pita bread.
  • Storage: Leftover pita can be stored in an airtight container (or a plastic bag) in the fridge for 3-4 days. Be sure to bring it to room temperature first.
  • Freezing: Wrap cooled pita loaves in plastic film and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. Your pita will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
  • Thawing and reheating: No need to thaw frozen pita. You can reheat in a low-heat oven (or toaster oven) until warmed to your liking.

Nutrition

Calories: 191kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 294mg | Potassium: 59mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 0.003mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 2mg
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Seed Crackers https://foolproofliving.com/seed-crackers/ https://foolproofliving.com/seed-crackers/#comments Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:20:37 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=74092 If you’re like me, you can’t get enough of the super-crisp, nutty taste of homemade seed crackers. If you want…]]>

If you’re like me, you can’t get enough of the super-crisp, nutty taste of homemade seed crackers. If you want to try more gluten-free recipes, I highly recommend whipping up my protein-packed Seed and Nut Bread—an ideal pick for an easy breakfast or a quick midday snack. Or, try out my Buckwheat Millet Bread for a foolproof loaf that tastes as good by itself as it does when topped with your favorite jam.

Person cracking seed crackers on a sheet pan.

Ingredients You Will Need

In my opinion, the best way to make healthy crackers is by using this tasty variety of seeds. These simple ingredients—many of which are also superfoods!—are delicious, nutritious, and usually available at the local grocery store.

Ingredients for healthy crackers recipe in small bowls.
  • Chia seeds: Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, chia seeds are a must-have ingredient in this recipe for crackers with seeds. Not only do they have a mild nuttiness that’s undeniably delicious, but they’re also helpful in supporting bone health and aiding weight loss.
  • Raw & Unsalted Sunflower seeds: One of the most classic types of seeds, sunflower seeds lend these homemade crackers a nuanced sweetness and delicate crunch—but that’s not all! Sunflower seeds also transform this basic recipe into “anti-inflammatory crackers,” as their high levels of vitamin E and other plant compounds help reduce inflammation and boost heart health. When selecting sunflower seeds for this recipe, look for all-natural, raw ones to ensure they don’t have any added salt.
  • Unsalted Pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds are also a great source of healthy fats, magnesium, antioxidants, and fiber, which may have other beneficial effects, such as regulating blood sugars and getting a good night’s sleep. I recommend buying pumpkin seeds that don’t have any additional salt—in other words, look for raw pumpkin seeds when shopping for this recipe.
  • Sesame seeds: Crunchy and buttery, sesame seeds taste fantastic in this recipe’s seed mixture. However, they also boast a range of other health benefits. For example, their high levels of B vitamins, calcium, and protein contribute to good vascular, muscular, and nerve health.
  • Ground flaxseeds (aka Flax meal): Flaxseeds are among the greatest superfoods to eat when you want to boost your digestive health. In particular, they contain high levels of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that help relieve constipation and promote digestive regularity. During my recipe research, I found variations of this recipe where others used whole flaxseeds, but I chose to use ground flaxseeds (AKA flax meal) because they’re easier to digest and help work as a binder—similar to how flour works in bread recipes. Other versions may also use psyllium husk as a binder, but I found this unnecessary, given my use of ground flax seeds.
  • Hemp seeds: The addition of hemp seeds gives these seed crackers earthy and nutty undertones. This tiny seed also contains essential nutrients and minerals, such as fatty acids and manganese, which help maintain healthy skin, joints, and bones through collagen production.
  • Kosher or sea salt: Salt helps with flavoring the crackers and helps them achieve more of a store-bought savory flavor, so do not skip it.
  • Olive oil: I used olive oil to give these crackers their rich, full-bodied taste and golden-brown exterior, but you could also use avocado oil if preferred.
  • Water: If you’ve seen other seeded crackers recipes, you might find that some ask you to use boiling water—particularly when making psyllium husk crackers. However, I’ve found that the temperature of your water doesn’t affect seed crackers that don’t use psyllium husk as a binder. Therefore, room-temperature water will work just as well as warm water when following my flaxseed cracker recipe.

Variations with Optional Add-Ins

One bite of these sunflower seed crackers, and you’ll want to whip up a batch every week. Once you get the hang of it, you can even put your own spin on this basic recipe, giving it nutty, herby, or even cheesy undertones. The following are just a few of my go-to additions:

  • Seasonings and herbs: If you want to give your crunchy seed crackers bright, garden-fresh notes, I highly recommend adding some of your favorite herbs, like dried rosemary or thyme. Or, if you want a more robustly flavored chip, seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika will lend your seed cracker recipe irresistibly savory flavors. You can even make an easy everything bagel crackers recipe by adding a pinch of everything bagel seasoning!
  • Nuts: Filling, protein-packed, and oh-so-delicious, nuts make a great addition to this seeded cracker recipe. Depending on your desired flavor profile, I recommend using finely chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or pistachios. You can also use a few tablespoons of almond flour (or even Homemade Almond Flour!) to reduce your prep time while still getting that classic “nut and seed crackers” taste. No matter which nuts you use, just be sure to use less of another dry ingredient to ensure a consistent ratio of wet-to-dry additions.
  • Nutritional yeast: No one can resist the savory, rich taste of a cheesy cracker. Simply add a bit of nutritional yeast to your recipe to give it a cheesy—yet vegan-friendly!—flavor.

How to Make Seed Crackers?

If you’ve never tried making crackers at home, you’re in luck! It’s a cinch to make these healthy crackers, and my step-by-step instructions will ensure they always come out with that satisfying “crunch.”

  1. Heat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. (162 degrees C.), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and set it aside.
A collage of images showing how to make seed crackers.
  1. Mix the dry ingredients: Add the chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, ground flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and salt to a large mixing bowl. Stir the ingredients until thoroughly combined.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Pour the olive oil and water into the same bowl and stir to combine. Let the mixture sit for five minutes—but no more than 7-8 minutes—until it thickens slightly. Too much resting time will result in an overly thick cracker.
  3. Transfer to pan: Scoop the mixture onto the prepared baking tray and use an offset spatula or large spoon to spread it into a single, even layer. Alternatively, you can place another piece of parchment paper on top of the mixture and spread it with your hands.
Freshly baked crackers on a baking sheet from the top view.
  1. Bake: Bake the sesame seed crackers in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until the edges turn a light brown. Then, remove them from the oven and let the crackers cool before serving.

How to Store & Freeze?

One of the best parts about this gluten-free cracker recipe is its easy storage. With long-lasting crispiness and hearty flavor, these crackers will stay fresh whether you store them in the pantry or the freezer.

  • Store: These keto seeded crackers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to ten days.
  • Freeze: For extra-long storage, you may freeze your crackers in a freezer-safe container until ready to eat. However, keep in mind that the low temperatures may make the seed chips more brittle, so you should store them in a flat orientation to avoid breakage.

Ways to Serve These Seeded Crackers

Homemade crackers are a must-try for anyone who loves versatility in their snacks. While they’re absolutely wonderful by themselves (literally, they’re such a great stand-alone snack!), they also make a fantastic spread when paired with other tasty recipes.

  • Dips: Easy, filling, and nutritious, this sesame crackers recipe makes a great snack alongside classic Mediterranean dips. Hummus is a zesty, creamy classic that pairs great with the earthy undertones of this easy cracker. You can also serve your recipe with smokier, savory-sweet dips, like Baba Ganoush or Muhammara.
  • Serve it as a flatbread: My favorite way to enjoy this recipe for seed crackers is as a flatbread topped with avocado, sliced eggs, and pickled red onions. You can also spread this cracker with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a quick morning fix. Or, if you’re in the mood for a sweeter variation, try spreading your crackers with nut butters, like peanut butter or almond butter, for a satisfying yet healthy dessert.
  • Cheese: No one can resist a five-star Meat and Cheese Board brimming with crisp crackers, flavorful cheeses, and savory meats. These multi-seed crackers make the perfect addition to any charcuterie board, but if you’re short on time, they also make an unbelievably delicious pairing with your favorite cheese.
  • Topping for salads: This sesame seed cracker recipe is the ultimate choice when you want to add a light crunch to your salad. You can crumble these crackers on top of any bowl of greens, from a sweet and tangy Apple Kale Slaw to a creamy Cauliflower Broccoli Salad.
  • With soups: Healthier and more flavorful than oyster crackers, these pumpkin seed crackers are an excellent topping for soup when crushed into small, crunchy bits. I especially love using this cracker recipe with my smooth-yet-zingy Carrot and Ginger Soup and creamily spiced Sweet Potato Soup.
Avocado and egg toast made using homemade crackers with seeds.

Expert Tips

These gluten-free seed crackers are a foolproof recipe for beginners and experienced chefs alike. Check out the below pro-level tips for the crunchiest, most flavorful crackers, regardless of your skill level.

  • Rest timing: Though resting is essential in making this recipe, don’t let the mixture rest for more than five minutes. Too much resting time will cause the chia seeds to swell, giving you a “doughier” mix that’s harder to spread. As a result, your seed crackers will be thicker and less crisp.
  • Spread it evenly: Even spreading is vital to ensuring your super seed crackers come out with a thin, crisp, and uniform texture. You can use a spatula, a spoon, or the back of a ramekin to spread your mixture effectively. Or, for easier clean-up, you can also place an additional sheet of parchment paper on top of the cracker mixture and use your hands (or a rolling pin) to press it into an even layer—as long as you remove this second piece of parchment paper before baking, of course.
  • Sheet pan size: I suggest using an 18 x 13-inch pan to make these chia crackers, as this large pan size will allow for a very thin layer of batter. However, if your baking sheets are smaller, I recommend baking your crackers in two batches to ensure the mixture doesn’t lay too thickly.
  • Parchment paper: Lining your sheet pan is critical to easy cracker removal post-baking. If you’re a baker, you can also use a silpat to line your pan due to its reusable, non-stick silicone base.
  • Cutting: I usually choose to “cut” this multi-seed crackers recipe by cracking it, giving each cracker a rustic, aesthetically pleasing shape. However, you can also use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut individual crackers if you prefer a less hands-on splitting method. If you want more uniformly shaped crackers, remove them halfway through baking and score the sheet with a sharp knife. That way, your keto crackers will split into more uniform portions once fully cooked.

FAQs

Have more questions about this healthy cracker recipe? This handy FAQ has everything you need, from nutritional information to term definitions.

What are seed crackers?

Seed crackers are a crispy, thin “flatbread” type of cracker that uses seeds—sesame, pumpkin, sunflower, chia, and more—as its primary base. In addition to these seeds, this cracker often uses other natural ingredients, like salt, water, and herbs, to give it texture and taste. These low-carb crackers also tend to be gluten-free, paleo-, and keto-friendly, as they use flour-alternative binders, like psyllium husk or ground flaxseeds. Furthermore, they often have a greater nutritional content due to their seeds’ high levels of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

What’s the difference between seeded crackers and Norwegian flatbread crackers?

Also known as Norwegian crispbread, Norwegian flatbread crackers are similar to seeded crackers due to their thin, crispy consistency and several core ingredients. However, the Norwegian variation—popular at specialty grocery stores like Trader Joe’s—is thinner and more delicate, and it also includes ingredients like oat flakes, rice bran, sugar, and rye flour. Meanwhile, seed crackers don’t traditionally include flour, and they boast a slightly thicker, seed-based body.

Are flaxseed crackers healthy?

Definitely—in moderation, of course! Unlike store-bought crackers, this healthy crackers recipe includes nutrient-rich superfoods, like chia and sesame seeds, which have higher levels of protein and fewer carbs than flour-based alternatives. 

How many calories in a seeded cracker?

There are approximately 204 calories in each of these seed crackers.

If you try this Seed Crackers recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It is a great help to others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

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Person cracking freshly made seeded crackers from the top view.
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Seed Crackers Recipe

Once you try these superfood-packed homemade crispy seed crackers, you’ll never want to buy crackers from the store again. This easy cracker recipe is vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, nut-free, and keto-friendly. Serve it as a snack, in place of bread (for avocado toast), or as a crunchy topping for salads and soups.
Course Healthy Snacks
Cuisine American, American Vegan
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
Calories 204kcal

Ingredients

  • ½ cup chia seeds
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds raw and unsalted
  • ¼ cup pumpkin seeds raw and unsalted
  • ¼ cup sesame seeds both white or black sesame seeds would work
  • ¼ cup ground flaxseeds (aka flax meal)
  • 3 tablespoons hemp seeds optional
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt or sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. (162 degrees C.). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine chia seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, ground flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and salt. Stir to combine.
  • Pour in olive oil and water. Mix to combine. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until it is slightly thickened (gel-like consistency.) Do not let it sit for more than 7-8 minutes, or otherwise, your crackers will be thicker.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared sheet and spread it evenly throughout the sheet pan using an offset spatula or a large spoon. Alternatively, you can place another parchment paper on top and spread it using your hands or a rolling pin.
  • Bake for 50-55 minutes or until the edges turn light brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes a large sheet of crackers, ideal for 8 servings. The nutritional values listed below are per cracker.
  • Source: This recipe has been adapted from my dear friend Alexandra of Occasionally Eggs’ wonderful cookbook. I made a few minor changes to her original recipe, but all credit goes to her.
  • Water: Some versions of this multi-seed crackers recipe use boiling water. I tested it using both boiling and room-temperature water and decided that room-temperature water works just fine.
  • Make it your own: After you make this recipe (as written) a few times, feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding other ingredients like poppy seeds, fennel seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, nutritional yeast, and more.
  • Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to ten days.
  • Freeze: For extra-long storage, you may freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container until ready to eat. However, keep in mind that the low temperatures may make them more brittle, so you should store them in a flat orientation to avoid breakage.

Nutrition

Calories: 204kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 296mg | Potassium: 149mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 38IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 139mg | Iron: 3mg
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Ina Garten Irish Soda Bread https://foolproofliving.com/ina-garten-irish-soda-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/ina-garten-irish-soda-bread/#comments Fri, 08 Mar 2024 17:44:04 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=73997 Today we are sticking to tradition and baking up Ina Garten’s recipe for Irish soda bread. It’s fast, fun, and…]]>

Today we are sticking to tradition and baking up Ina Garten’s recipe for Irish soda bread. It’s fast, fun, and allows us to celebrate one of the traditional quick breads of Ireland.

We are big fans of Ina Garten, so if you love Ina Garten recipes as much as we do, be sure to make her Pot Roast, Chicken Stock, and Butternut Squash Salad.

A person is slicing Ina Garten's Irish Soda Bread from the top view.

If you make many Ina Garten bread recipes, keep in mind that this is her Irish Soda Bread with orange zest and currents, which is not the same as her Guinness Bread. That recipe is more of a brown bread and includes Guinness beer.

Ingredients

The traditional Irish soda bread has 4 simple ingredients, including flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. The baking soda is used as the leavening agent instead of traditional yeast. When mixed with the lactic acid in buttermilk, it creates tiny bubbles of carbon dioxide, which gives the bread a crusty exterior while also promoting lift and structure.

The original recipe of yeastless bread was created by the Native Americans, and then adopted in Ireland in the 1840s when baking soda was introduced to Ireland. They originally used pearl ash (potash or potassium carbonate) as the leavening agent for quick bread.

The famous Ina Garten soda bread has the basic ingredients and a few untraditional (but welcome) additions to the original recipe. We will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients for the recipe from the top view.
  • All-purpose flour: The original Irish soda bread recipe used soft wheat flour, which is the same as modern-day all-purpose flour. If you’d like a bit more flavor and fiber, replace one cup of white flour with whole wheat flour instead.
  • Sugar: Ina uses ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) granulated sugar, but I reduced it to 2 tablespoons. You can use regular granulated sugar, organic cane sugar, coconut sugar, or brown sugar.
  • Baking soda: The key ingredient and where Irish soda bread gets its name. For best results, make sure your baking soda is fresh and not expired.
  • Kosher salt: Kosher salt enhances the tangy, sweet flavors in this quick bread recipe.
  • Cold Unsalted butter: It is crucial that the unsalted butter is cold. I like to cut it into small pieces and keep it in the fridge until I am ready to mix.
  • Buttermilk: Buttermilk (the modern-day version of sour milk) is essential to the rise. Thanks to the cultured aspect of this dairy drink, the buttermilk also contributes to the flavor, acidity, and moisture.
  • Egg: One egg helps make the loaf more cohesive and dense. You can make it without the egg, but I recommend keeping it in the recipe. Barefoot Contessa’s recipe uses an extra-large egg, but I used a large egg and didn’t notice a difference in texture.
  • Orange zest: Although untraditional, orange zest adds a special sharpness that truly sets this orange soda bread apart.
  • Currants: Dried currants add a pop of sweetness and color. You can replace them with raisins or dried cranberries, but if you go with those larger pieces of dried fruit (compared to currants) chop them up a bit before mixing. For even more flavorful additions, you can experiment with the addition of caraway seeds, fresh herbs, or shredded cheese.

How to Make Barefoot Contessa’s Irish Soda Bread?

The Barefoot Contessa Irish soda bread recipe is super fast and reliable. And the best part, you ask? It only takes a few minutes of prep time. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper.
Steps showing how to make the bread dough in a standing mixer.
  1. Mix dry ingredients: In the bowl of an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt on low speed until combined, about 10 seconds.
  2. Cut in butter: Mix the cold butter pieces into the flour mixture at low speed until the butter is roughly the size of peas, about 1 minute. 
  3. Mix wet ingredients: In a large measuring cup, whisk together the cold buttermilk, egg, and orange zest using a fork.
  4. Make dough: With the machine running on low, slowly add the buttermilk mixture. Keep mixing on low until everything is combined, about 1 minute. You may have to stop the machine once to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl. Do not overmix.
Irish soda bread dough before and after it is baked.
  1. Add currants: In a separate bowl, toss the currants with about 1 tablespoon of flour. Turn the machine on low speed and add the currants. Mix until they are evenly distributed within the dough, about 1 minute. The dough will be very sticky.
  2. Knead: Dump the dough onto a well-floured board or surface. Knead for 1-2 minutes and shape it into a round loaf.
  3. Cut an X: Transfer the dough onto the prepared sheet pan. Cut an X on top with a large serrated knife.
  4. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until it turns lightly golden brown. When tapped on the bottom, the loaf should make a hollow sound.
  5. Cool: Cool on a baking rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Store, Freeze, Thaw & Reheat?

Irish soda bread with currants tends to dry out quickly, so it’s best to store it properly for maximum freshness. Here’s how I like to do it:

  • Storage: Wrap it in foil or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: If freezing the whole loaf, double wrap in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. If freezing individual slices (recommended), seal them tight in a zip-top freezer bag. Whichever method you choose, freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw: Thaw the loaf overnight in the refrigerator. If you have frozen slices, thaw them to room temperature.
  • Reheat: Reheat the entire loaf in a low—medium oven (300 – 325 degrees F) for 10 minutes or until warm. Reheat slices in the toaster oven or following the same oven method, but for only 3-5 minutes.

What is the Best Way to Eat Irish Soda Bread?

Once Ina’s Irish soda bread comes out of the oven, you will have to practice your patience skills. Your kitchen will smell wonderful, and you’ll want to eat it right away. However, it is best to allow the bread to cool for at least one hour before slicing, or it will crumble. Trust me, your patience will be rewarded when you cut your first slice, and it will remain sturdy, dense, and delicious.

Whether you want to serve it like the Irish or give it your own unique touch, here are my best-serving suggestions:

  • Butter and Jam: Slather it with good Irish butter and your favorite flavor of jam for a delicious treat alongside hot coffee or tea.
  • Soups and Stews: Because Irish soda bread is so dense (in the best way), it does a good job of soaking up delicious broths. Pair it with hearty soups or stews, like Stuffed Cabbage Soup or Vegetable Beef Soup. Or, treat yourself to a feast by serving it with our Beer Braised Beef Short Ribs for a dreamy St. Patrick’s Day dinner.
  • Cheese: Give it a savory bite with Irish cheddar cheese, Dubliner, or Brie.
  • Smoked Salmon: For a nontraditional approach, lighten it up by topping it with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and fresh dill.
  • Corned Beef and Cabbage: Nothing says Happy St. Patrick’s Day more than Corned Beef and Cabbage.
Person spreading butter on a slice of Barefoot Contessa's Irish soda bread.

Expert Tips

Creating an Irish currant soda bread worthy of celebration requires a few key techniques. Here are my expert tips on how to make the best Irish soda bread recipe:

  • Keep the butter and buttermilk cold. The pockets of butter in the dough create steam in the oven, creating a tender, crispy loaf.
  • The dough will be sticky: A wet dough is normal, so do not be afraid to add a generous amount of flour to your work surface. Additionally, it is okay to knead the dough for a minute or so. It will still be sticky (even after kneading), so don’t be alarmed.
  • Do not overwork the dough: Handle it gently, and do not knead excessively. Overmixing can make the loaf tough and rubbery.
  • Cast Iron Skillet: Try baking it in a seasoned cast iron skillet. The extra heat conduction creates a crisp crust that is heavenly. A preheated baking stone can also work.
  • Listen for the hollow sound: A key characteristic of soda bread is the hollow sound you hear when it’s tapped on the bottom of the loaf. When you hear it, you know it’s ready.  If this is your first time making Ina’s recipe, you can also insert a cake tester into the center, which should come out clean.
  • Do not slice it when it is hot: Patience is key. Slicing the bread while still piping hot can cause it to crumble. Wait at least 30 minutes – 1 hour for the bread to rest and set its structure.

FAQs

Why is it called Irish Soda Bread?

Irish soda bread gets its name from the use of baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) as the leavening agent rather than traditional yeast. The reaction of the baking soda with an acidic ingredient, in this case buttermilk, creates a rise and is much faster than using yeast, which requires time and fermentation.

Does Irish soda bread always have raisins?

No, actually, plain Irish soda bread without raisins or currants is commonly eaten in Ireland. The inclusion of dried fruit is more about regional preference or family tradition.

What’s the difference between Irish bread and Irish soda bread?

Irish bread is the broader term for bread made in Ireland that can be made with baking soda, baking powder, or yeast, along with additional components such as oats or wholemeal flour. Irish soda bread is bread that is exclusively made with baking soda and an acidic ingredient to make the bread rise.

If you try Ina Garten’s Irish Soda Bread recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. If you take some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

Barefoot Contessa's Irish Soda Bread sliced with a knife on the side.
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Ina Garten’s Irish Soda Bread Recipe

Ina Garten’s Irish Soda Bread is a wonderful treat for St. Patrick's Day or any other day of the year. It comes together in minutes and requires no yeast. It is delicious when served with a spread of butter (and jam), but you can also serve it with soups, stews, cheese, and more.
Course Bread, Breakfast
Cuisine Irish
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 382kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for currants and the counter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated or cane or coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick) cold, cut into ½-inch small pieces
  • 1 ¾ cups buttermilk cold
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 cup currants

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  • Place flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until combined for 10 seconds or so.
  • Add the butter pieces and mix on low speed until butter is mixed with flour, about a minute.
  • Place the cold buttermilk in a large measuring cup and add the egg and orange zest. Whisk to combine.
  • While the machine is running on low, slowly add the buttermilk mixture. Run the machine until everything is combined for about a minute. You may have to stop the machine once to scrape the bottom.
  • Mix the currants with a tablespoon of flour in a bowl.
  • Turn the machine on low speed and add the currants. Mix until they are evenly distributed within the dough for about a minute. Don’t be alarmed, it should be a very sticky dough.
  • Sprinkle your kitchen counter with flour and transfer the dough on top. Knead for a minute or two and shape it into a round loaf.
  • Transfer the loaf onto the prepared sheet pan. Using a serrated knife, cut an X on top of the bread.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden brown. When tapped at the bottom, it should make a hollow sound.
  • Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Video

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes 1 loaf that can be cut into 8 slices. The nutritional values below are per slice.
  • Don’t have a mixer? Mix it by hand: Ina makes it in an electric stand mixer, but if you don’t own a mixer, make it by hand with a large bowl and wooden spoon. Just make sure to work fast to prevent the butter from melting.
  • Dried fruit: Ina uses currants in her recipe. However, if you don’t have currants, you can use cranberries or raisins. I recommend chopping them up a bit before adding them to the better so they resemble currants.
  • Sticky dough: Even after kneading on a floured surface the dough will be sticky. Simply follow the recipe; it is normal for it to be sticky.
  • Wait for it to cool down: I know it is not ideal to wait for an hour when your kitchen smells amazing, but if you slice it too early, it will stick to your knife and will lose all its moisture.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: If freezing the whole loaf, double wrap in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. If freezing individual slices (recommended), seal them tight in a zip-top freezer bag. Whichever method you choose, freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw: Thaw the loaf overnight in the refrigerator. If you have frozen slices, you can reheat them in your toaster right away.
  • Reheat: Reheat the entire loaf in a low—medium oven (300 – 325 degrees F) for 10 minutes or until warm. 

Nutrition

Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 646mg | Potassium: 288mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 305IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 91mg | Iron: 3mg
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Air Fryer Garlic Bread https://foolproofliving.com/air-fryer-garlic-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/air-fryer-garlic-bread/#comments Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:39:14 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=68957 With so much bold, warm flavor, it’s no wonder why so many people love making garlic toast in the air…]]>

With so much bold, warm flavor, it’s no wonder why so many people love making garlic toast in the air fryer. This simple recipe has all the robust, toasty flavor of my Roasted Garlic Butter Spread while taking as little time to make as my all-purpose Garlic Butter Sauce. You’ll go head-over-heels for all the delectable recipes you can make with these garlic butter recipes.

Air Fryer Garlic Bread on a plate from the top view.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You can say goodbye to complicated Italian recipes with this super-easy side dish. You only need a handful of ingredients to make air fryer homemade garlic bread.

Ingredients to make garlic bread in air fryer with sliced bread.
  • Bread: During our recipe testing, we found that the best bread for this delicious garlic bread recipe is a French baguette because of its fluffy insides and firm yet crusty exterior. Day-old bread, too, is preferable as it is drier compared to a fresh loaf. However, you can also make garlic bread with white, Italian, or French bread if you don’t have a baguette. If you want to make your own loaf, you could also whip up my favorite crusty bread, aka No-Knead Bread, for an effortless solution. However, remember that the air frying time may need to be modified based on the type of bread you are using. Irrespective of the bread variety, we recommend cutting your bread into ½-inch slices to ensure proper cooking.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice for garlic bread because it keeps your side from tasting overly salty when paired with parmesan cheese. However, if you want to make this recipe without cheese, I recommend using salted butter or adding a touch of flaky sea salt or Kosher salt to your butter mixture.
  • Garlic: It’s essential to use finely minced garlic in this recipe to ensure its flavors evenly coat each slice of bread. If you prefer fresh garlic, I recommend using a garlic press (affiliate link) to chop the ingredient into an ultra-fine paste. If you don’t have any fresh garlic in your pantry, you may substitute this ingredient for an equal amount of garlic powder. You could also use Roasted Garlic Cloves instead for a rich, caramelized taste.
  • Parsley: Parsley is essential to giving this dish its herby undertones and a pop of bright color. You can use dried or fresh parsley if you chop it thinly.
  • Shredded parmesan cheese: I usually use shredded parmesan when I make cheesy garlic bread in the air fryer, giving each bite a touch of nutty, rich flavor. However, shaved parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese would also work.

How to Make Garlic Bread in the Air Fryer?

Preparing homemade garlic bread in an air fryer is a simple way to enjoy warm, perfectly toasted sides every night of the week—or even a quick snack! Plus, it only takes six steps and no lengthy oven time.

  1. Prepare the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F.
A collage of images showing how to make garlic bread in the air fryer.
  1. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the butter, garlic, parsley, and parmesan cheese.
  2. Coat the bread slices: Spread about one teaspoon of the butter mixture onto each slice of bread, covering the entire surface.
  3. Transfer the bread: Arrange the buttered bread slices in the air fryer basket. Make sure they lay in a single layer without any overlap. If all your bread doesn’t fit, you may need to cook them in two batches.
  4. Air fry the garlic toast: Toast the garlic bread in the air fryer for approximately five minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Serve: Serve the toasted garlic bread while still warm.

How to Make Ahead, Store, Freeze, and Reheat?

This recipe for garlic bread in the air fryer is an easy way to simplify your meal prep. Prepare this recipe ahead of time for an easy crowd-ready side, or store your leftover garlic bread to enjoy throughout the week.

  • Make-ahead: To make this recipe ahead of time, make the garlic butter mixture up to one day beforehand and slice your bread into ½-inch slices. Then, store the butter mixture in an airtight container in the fridge and keep the bread slices separately, spreading the pieces with the softened butter just before air frying. If you’re preparing for a dinner party and won’t have time to spread the slices before cooking, you can also coat the bread slices with the butter mixture one day in advance. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a sheet pan, cover them tightly with stretch film or aluminum foil, and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
  • Storage: Bring your slices to room temperature, place them on a plate in a single layer, tightly cover them with stretch film, and store in the fridge for 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the garlic bread in the air fryer at 300 degrees F. for 2-3 minutes.
  • Freeze: Bring your slices to room temperature to make frozen garlic bread for later use. Then, place parchment paper between each of the slices to prevent sticking, and store them in an airtight freezer-safe container (or Ziploc bag) in the freezer until ready to reheat.
  • Reheat: There’s no need to defrost your slices when reheating garlic bread in an air fryer. Simply place your frozen bread in a 350-degree F. air fryer for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.

What to Serve with Air Fried Garlic Bread?

Cooking garlic bread in the air fryer is one of the best ways to ensure a five-star meal any day of the week. This simple collection of recipes will satisfy any craving, from creamy pasta to light salads.

Expert Tips

It’s a cinch to toast French bread in the air fryer. With this expert guide, you’ll enjoy deliciously crisp, heartily flavored garlic bread in no time.

  • Evenly sliced bread: When making air fryer garlic bread with sliced bread, slicing your loaf into evenly thick pieces is imperative. The thickness of your slices will directly affect how long they take to cook., so I recommend cutting ½-inch portions to ensure ideal toasting. 
  • Spread butter evenly: An easy way to give each bite of your garlic bread a delectably bold flavor is to spread your butter mixture over your slices evenly. For best results, only about one teaspoon of butter per slice (granted, you are using French baguette slices), as too much will result in soggy bread.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Be sure to arrange your garlic bread in the air fryer in a single layer without any overlap to get evenly browned slices. You may have to cook this recipe in multiple batches if you have extra pieces of bread.
  • Different air fryer brands: How long it takes to air fry garlic bread may change depending on the air fryer you own. We tested this recipe both in Ninja Foodie and Instant Pot air fryers. It took slightly shorter to cook Ninja Foodi garlic bread than its Instant Pot air fryer version. Therefore, we recommend using this recipe as a general guide and watching your slices closely to ensure they’re perfectly golden brown before serving.
  • Keep a close eye on it: Because toasting French bread in an air fryer takes so little time, you must watch your bread slices while they cook to keep them from burning—especially when you add parmesan cheese.

FAQs

Making fresh garlic bread in an air fryer is a beginner-ready recipe that comes together with minimal effort. Below, I’ve answered all your questions about this easy dish, taking the stress out of the process.

Can you air-fry garlic bread?

Yes! Preparing homemade garlic bread in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to ensure robustly flavored, evenly toasted slices any day of the week. And the best part, it is much quicker than making it in the oven.

What is the best time and temperature to cook garlic bread in an air fryer?

I recommend air-frying your garlic bread for about five minutes at 350 degrees F. However, this time may change depending on the thickness of your slices and the brand of your air fryer.

How long to cook garlic bread in an air fryer?

When making garlic bread in an air fryer that’s not frozen, you’ll need about five minutes at 350 degrees F. to give your slices an ideal warmth and crispiness.

How long to reheat garlic bread in an air fryer?

To warm up garlic bread in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 300 degrees F. Then, toast your slices for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

How long to toast frozen garlic bread in an air fryer?

To cook frozen garlic bread, set your air fryer to 350 degrees F. and cook the slices for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.

How to cook store bought garlic bread in an air fryer?

Though instructions may vary between brands, it only takes five minutes at 350 degrees F. to air-fry Texas Toast (prepackaged.) However, keep in mind that the timing might slightly change based on the brand you are using. Therefore, we recommend watching your batches closely when making store-bought air-fried garlic bread.

Other Air Fryer Recipes You Might Also Like

No one can resist the hassle-free, tasty eats possible with an air fryer. If you liked this air fryer garlic toast, here are a few other easy air fryer recipes you might also like.

If you try this Air Fryer Garlic Bread recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It is a great help to others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

Air fried garlic bread on a plate from the top view.
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Air Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe (Fresh or Frozen)

Making fresh garlic bread in the air fryer is possibly the easiest and quickest way to treat yourself to a delicious side dish or appetizer. Not to mention, using your air fryer cuts down on the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your garlic bread in minutes.
Course Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 12 slices
Calories 107kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter at room temperature (2 ounces)
  • 5 cloves garlic crushed through a garlic press or finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley or chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese grated (optional*)
  • 1 baguette sliced into ½-inch thick slices

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F.
  • Mix the butter, garlic, parsley, and parmesan cheese (if using) in a bowl.
  • Spread the butter mixture evenly onto each slice of bread, approximately 1 teaspoon per slice.
  • Place the garlic toast slices in the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring that they are not overlapping. Depending on the size of your air fryer, if they don’t fit, you may have to air fry them in two batches.
  • Air fry for approximately 5 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Serve immediately while they are still warm.
  • Any leftover browned slices can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat in the air fryer at 300 degrees F for 2-3 minutes until warm.

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe yields 12 slices of French baguette bread. The nutritional information below is per slice.
  • Bread: You can use any other bread you have on hand. Italian bread, sourdough bread, French bread, and even ciabatta would all work. However, keep in mind that there is a direct correlation between the thickness of bread and air frying time. We recommend slicing in ½-inch slices for the best results. We also recommend day-old bread as it absorbs the garlic-butter mixture better.
  • Parmesan Cheese: If you decide to make this recipe without parmesan cheese, add in 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt into the butter mixture.
  • Garlic: We found that minced fresh garlic was way better than garlic powder. However, the two can be used interchangeably in a pinch. If you do have the time, we recommend trying this recipe with Roasted Garlic or Air Fried Garlic for truly next-level garlic bread.
  • Parsley: If you do not have dried parsley, you can substitute it with fresh, but it should be finely chopped when incorporating it into the butter mixture. Alternatively, you can use other dried or fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, and rosemary. 
  • Keep in mind that individual air fryer brands may perform differently, so consider this recipe as a starting point and adjust the cook time according to your personal preference.
  • Storage: Bring your slices to room temperature, place them on a plate in a single layer, tightly cover them with stretch film, and store them in the fridge for 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the garlic bread in the air fryer at 300 degrees F. for 2-3 minutes.
  • Freeze: Bring your slices to room temperature, place parchment paper between each of the slices to prevent sticking, and store them in an airtight Ziploc bag in the freezer until ready to cook.
  • Reheat: There’s no need to defrost your slices before reheating. Simply place your frozen bread in a 350-degree F. air fryer for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 197mg | Potassium: 40mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 154IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 1mg
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Yogurt and Molasses Bread with Walnuts and Dried Figs https://foolproofliving.com/yogurt-and-molasses-bread-with-walnuts-and-dried-figs/ https://foolproofliving.com/yogurt-and-molasses-bread-with-walnuts-and-dried-figs/#comments Sat, 14 Jan 2023 17:12:41 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=2019 There’s nothing better than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Although it may seem challenging or…]]>

There’s nothing better than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Although it may seem challenging or complicated, homemade bread is often easier to make than it seems! You’ll also love this Nut and Seed Loaf or my Buckwheat Bread Recipe if you need more inspiration for other easy bread recipes. 

Yogurt Molasses Bread sliced and photographed from the front view.

Ingredients

This recipe (adapted from the original recipe, Mark Bittman Yogurt Bread) requires only a few basic ingredients that you likely have stocked in your pantry and fridge. Besides classic bread ingredients like flour and baking soda, we’re adding molasses, dried fruits, and walnuts for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. 

Ingredients for the recipe are individually portioned into bowls.

For this quick bread recipe, you’ll need whole wheat flour (or white whole wheat flour), cornmeal, kosher salt, baking soda, plain whole milk yogurt (or buttermilk), unsulphured molasses (I like Grandma’s Molasses – affiliate link), chopped dried fruit (any kind you prefer, such as cranberries, figs, or raisins), and chopped walnuts. 

How to Make It?

This moist loaf comes together with only 15 minutes of hands-on time and an hour of cook time, making it a no-fuss option whenever you’re craving a slice of warm, homemade bread. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a non-stick, 9×5 or 8.5×4.5 inch loaf pan with vegetable oil spray (such as olive oil), or line it with parchment paper. 
How to make yogurt bread with molasses shown in a collage of images.
  1. Combine the dry ingredients: Add the whole wheat flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda to a medium bowl and mix until well combined. 
  2. Whisk the wet ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients until combined. 
  3. Combine ingredients together: Add the flour mixture into the bowl with the wet mixture and stir until just combined, making sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl. The dough will be very thick.
  4. Add the dried fruit and nuts: Gently fold in the chopped fruits and nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is a rather dense dough so don’t be alarmed.
Person showing the before and after of the bread during the baking process.
  1. Pour into a loaf pan: Transfer batter to the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to even it out. 
  2. Bake loaf: Bake in the center of the oven for about 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. 
  3. Serve: Slice with a serrated knife and serve with your favorite spreads or toppings. 

How to Serve?

This yogurt and molasses bread is so hearty and filling that it makes for the perfect quick breakfast or afternoon snack that will keep you feeling energized. Add a pat of butter and enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or use your favorite spreads to amp up the flavor. Here are some suggestions:  

  • Pop it in the toaster: I personally think that this quick bread is best when served warm, so I like to pop it in the toaster before serving. The toaster warms it evenly and gives it a nice crust! 
  • Use your favorite spread: Lots of different butters, cheeses, and jams pair beautifully with this bread. Spread on some salted or unsalted butter to keep things simple (make sure to toast the bread, so the butter melts), or serve it with cream cheese, homemade ricotta cheese, no butter chocolate frosting, or mascarpone cheese. If you want to add some sweetness, spread on your favorite jam. I personally love to pair this bread with blackberry jam!

How to Store and Freeze

If you don’t think you can consume the loaf within about a week, you can store it in the freezer to enjoy later. Better yet, make a double recipe and store one loaf in the freezer to have homemade bread available whenever you’re craving it. Here are some storage tips: 

  • Store: Let the bread cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep in the fridge for about a week. 
  • Freeze: Before freezing, let the bread cool to room temperature and slice it (it’s difficult to slice once it’s frozen). Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. 
Molasses bread with yogurt is sliced from the top view.

Expert Tips

Even though this molasses whole wheat bread recipe is pretty easy and straightforward, I wanted to provide you with a few tips to help you get the best results. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Don’t overmix the dough: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, it’s important to mix until the dough is just combined. Overmixing tends to affect the texture of your bread, making the resulting bread tough, dense, or chewy. While manually mixing will help you avoid overmixing, a stand mixer and a dough hook will also work as long as you watch it closely and stop mixing once the dough comes together. 
  • Aerate the flour for proper measurement: The best way to measure flour for this whole wheat recipe is to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a butter knife. This will help aerate the flour, which ensures proper measurement and gives the bread a nice texture. 
  • It is a dense dough: After you add the fruit, you will end up with a dense dough. You might think that it needs more liquid but please trust the recipe. It does not need more liquid.
  • Let it cool completely before slicing: I know you will be tempted to cut into your bread as soon as it comes out of the oven (I was, too), but it’s important to wait a little bit to let the loaf cool completely before cutting into it. The bread actually continues to cook and release steam as it cools, so cutting into it too soon interrupts this process and leaves you with a dense texture that’s usually a bit sticky.

FAQs

What does yogurt do in baking bread?

Adding yogurt to bread recipes makes for tender, moist, and fluffy bread. It’s also a great substitute or replacement for fats and liquid, such as oil and butter, in healthy bread recipes. 

Which molasses is best?

I used unsulphured molasses in this molasses wheat bread recipe, as it’s made from sugar cane, usually doesn’t contain additives or preservatives, and has a sweet, “pure” taste. Blackstrap molasses, another common type of molasses, is thicker, darker, and more bitter than unsulphured. 

Other Quick Bread Recipes You Might Like

Once you start making bread at home, you won’t want to buy it from the store! Whether you serve it to your family or give it away to friends and neighbors, it’s always nice to have a homemade loaf that’s ready to enjoy. If you’re looking to expand your collection of quick bread recipes, look no further than the links below: 

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If you try this Yogurt Molasses Bread recipe, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

This recipe is adapted from Mark Bittman’s Quick Whole Wheat and Molasses Bread recipe in his cookbook, How To Cook Everything (affiliate link.)

Yogurt molasses bread sliced on a cutting board.
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Yogurt Molasses Bread Recipe

With just the right amount of sweetness this yogurt walnut and dried fig bread make a delicious breakfast bread or snack cake to serve with your afternoon tea. If you are a fan of making your own bread, this whole wheat flour and cornmeal based Yogurt Molasses bread recipe is one that you should definitely try.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 335kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 13.75 oz.
  • 1/2 cup fine cornmeal 3 oz.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 2/3 cups plain whole milk yogurt 14 oz. – at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsulphured blackstrap molasses 4.5 oz.
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit chopped
  • 1 cup walnuts chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 325 Degrees F. Spray a non-stick 9X5 or 8.5 X4.5 baking dish with vegetable spray.
  • Mix whole wheat flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. Set it aside.
  • Whisk together yogurt and molasses in a separate bowl until fully combined.
  • Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. It will be a very thick batter.
  • Mix in the chopped fruit and walnuts and stir them in just until they are evenly distributed.
  • Place the batter into the prepared pan and distribute it evenly in the pan using a spatula.
  • Bake until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean for about 55-60 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and transfer onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Slice and serve.

Notes

  • It is a dense dough: After you add the fruit, you will end up with a dense dough, and it may feel like you need more liquid, but trust the recipe.
  • Let it cool completely before slicing: I know you will be tempted to cut into your bread as soon as it comes out of the oven (I was, too), but it’s important to wait a little bit to let the loaf cool completely before cutting into it. Bread actually continues to cook and release steam as it cools, so cutting into it too soon interrupts this process and leaves you with a dense texture that’s usually a bit sticky. 
  • Storage: Bring the leftovers to room temperature before placing in an airtight container in the fridge. The sliced bread will keep fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezing: This whole wheat bread is great for freezing. Though I recommend freezing it after slicing. Simply place the sliced bread in an airtight container, and get the air out as much as possible before freezing. 
  • Thawing: No need to thaw! Just warm it up in a toaster (or toaster oven) for a delicious breakfast toast.

Nutrition

Calories: 335kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 410mg | Potassium: 607mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 131mg | Iron: 3mg
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Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread with Jiffy Mix https://foolproofliving.com/jalapeno-and-scallion-cornbread/ https://foolproofliving.com/jalapeno-and-scallion-cornbread/#comments Wed, 19 Oct 2022 13:28:22 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=5555 Cornbread is one of life’s little pleasures that is cozy and comforting. It’s the perfect side dish for many soups,…]]>

Cornbread is one of life’s little pleasures that is cozy and comforting. It’s the perfect side dish for many soups, stews and chilis, and it makes an even better accompaniment to main dish meals.

I love to use this jalapeno cheese cornbread for my Vegetarian Cornbread Stuffing when the holiday season comes around. And if you don’t have any boxes of Jiffy corn muffin mix at home or would prefer a from-scratch recipe, try my Savory Cornbread Muffins instead.

Jalapeno cheddar cornbread on a plate from the top view.

Why Should You Try This Recipe?

While I love classic cornbread, the addition of jalapeno and cheddar really takes it over the top. I know you will love it because:

  • One-bowl 30-minute recipe: That’s right – all it takes is one bowl and a whisk to have this Jiffy jalapeno cornbread ready for the table in 30 minutes.
  • Balanced and Flavorful: The jalapeno adds a little kick and the perfect balance of heat to the sweet cornmeal and creamy cheddar cheese.
  • Super Customizable: With plenty of options to swap out one ingredient for another, the recipe variations are endless and a great way to stay creative in the kitchen. 

Ingredients You Will Need

This Jiffy cheddar jalapeno cornbread requires a short list of only 7 simple ingredients. Gather together large eggs, sour cream, unsalted butter, honey, Jiffy corn muffin mix, canned jalapenos and cheddar cheese.

Ingredients for cornbread with jalapeños and cheese from the top view.

Ingredient Substitutions and Notes

  • Sour Cream: Use whole milk sour cream for a great texture and moist cornbread recipe.
  • Honey: We like sweet jalapeno cornbread, and since the Jiffy mix already has sugar, a teaspoon of honey goes a long way. Feel free to omit or replace it with maple syrup instead.
  • Oil: Swap out the butter for a neutral flavored oil, like avocado oil or refined coconut oil.
  • Canned vs. Fresh Jalapeños: I used diced canned jalapenos, but fresh jalapeno peppers, stemmed, seeded, and diced, or canned green chiles (be sure to drain it well) would also work. If adding jalapenos to the cornbread mix sounds too spicy to you, feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preferred heat level.
  • Cheese: I used white sharp cheddar cheese since that’s what I had on hand. A few other cheese options include pepper jack cheese, sharp cheddar, Monterey jack, or Mexican blend cheese.
  • Creamed Corn: If you’re looking for a Mexican cornbread with jiffy mix spin, add half a can of drained creamed corn (aka cream-style corn). Cooking time should remain the same.

How to Make This Recipe?

This easy Jiffy jalapeno cornbread recipe is just that – easy! It comes together in just a few minutes, and the rest of the time it’s left to bake away in the oven. Here’s how to do it:

A person greasing a pan and whisking wet ingredients from the top view.
  1. Grease pan: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Generously grease a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Whisk wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, melted butter and honey, if using, until thoroughly combined and emulsified.
A person making honey jalapeno cornbread using jiffy mix.
  1. Add corn muffin mix: Fold in the two boxes of Jiffy cornbread mix. It will feel like you don’t have enough liquid. Be patient. As you mix, the batter will come together.
  2. Stir in additions: Add jalapenos to the cornbread mix, along with the cheddar cheese.
A person spreading cornbread mix into a pan and then baking it in the oven.
  1. Bake: Transfer the cornbread batter to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly throughout the pan with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 15 minutes. Slice and serve.

How to Make in Cast Iron Skillet or Muffin Tin?

This cheesy jalapeño cornbread recipe is just as easy to make in a cast iron skillet or muffin tin. Here’s how to do each one:

  • Cast Iron Skillet: Prepare the cornbread as directed. Spread into an even layer into a very well-greased / buttered 10-inch cast iron skillet. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-22 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Muffin Pan: To make corn muffins, prepare the corn muffin batter as directed. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with 12 parchment paper liners (affiliate link). Divide the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-23 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers spring back to the touch. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then serve warm or transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. This cheesy jalapeno cornbread recipe will make 12 muffins.

How to Store Leftovers?

  • Storage: This Jiffy jalapeno cheddar cornbread can be stored in an airtight container or zip top bag in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, bring to room temperature or reheat as per the instructions below before serving.
  • Freeze: To freeze, slice the cornbread into individual slices. Place on a rimmed baking sheet small enough to fit in your freezer. Freeze for 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven or toaster oven set to 300 degrees F for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Main Dish Recipes to Serve with Cornbread

Cheddar jalapeno cornbread is a wonderful addition to many soups, stews, chilis and those comforting fall and winter meals. Some of my favorite ways to serve include:

Cheesy cornbread with jalapeño in a pan from the top view.

Expert Tips

  • Bring all ingredients to room temperature. This will create a smoother, well-mixed batter.
  • Drain the canned jalapenos. It’s important to drain canned jalapenos before mixing them into the cornbread mix, or you run the risk of making the batter too wet. I like to drain and even pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Save a little extra shredded cheddar cheese for the top. It adds a visual appeal and another level of cheesy goodness. It is optional, but a few jalapeno slices on top adds a nice touch, too.

FAQs

What can you add to Jiffy corn muffin mix?

Jiffy corn muffin mix turns out much better with the addition of sour cream, eggs and melted butter. And to make it even more crave-able, jalapeno peppers and cheddar cheese add a generous amount of heat and creamy goodness to the original recipe.

How do you make Jiffy cornbread so it doesn’t crumble?

The best way to make Jiffy cornbread so it doesn’t crumble is to enrich the dough with eggs, sour cream, butter or oil, and a touch of honey. All will add moisture and a well-balanced flavor profile.

How can I spice up my cornbread mix?

To add some pizzazz to your cornbread mix, stir in one small can of diced jalapenos and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese.

Why is Jiffy mix cornbread so crumbly?

The Jiffy cornbread recipe on the back of the box makes cornbread that is a little on the dry side. To combat this, a combination of sour cream and melted butter adds moisture, as well as flavor.

Other Recipes You’ll Enjoy:

I won’t lie; I think jalapeno peppers are awesome, and I love using them in my cooking every opportunity I get. Here are a few recipes from the archives where they shine:

If you try this easy Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread with Jiffy recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

Jalapeno cornbread cut into squares placed on a plate.
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Jiffy Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Recipe

This recipe for Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread with Jiffy Mix adds a hint of spice, a touch of sweetness, and lots of cheesy flavor to your classic cornbread mix. Make this 7-ingredient recipe in only 30 minutes for an irresistible side to soups, stews, chilis, and more.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Cooling time 10 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings 9 servings
Calories 415kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream at room temperature
  • ¼ cup melted unsalted butter cooled plus more for greasing the pan
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional
  • 2 boxes Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix 8.5 ounces each
  • ½ cup diced canned jalapenos* fully drained and chopped
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Grease pan: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Generously grease a 9X9 inch baking dish with butter (or cooking spray).
  • Whisk wet ingredients: Whisk eggs, sour cream, melted butter and honey, if using, in a large mixing bowl until fully combined.
  • Add dry ingredients: Stir in the Jiffy corn muffin mix. At first, it will feel like you don’t have enough liquid, but as you mix, it will come together.
  • Stir in mix-ins: Fold in the chopped jalapenos and cheddar cheese.
  • Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly throughout the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let it cool for 15 minutes. Slice and serve.

Notes

Notes:
  • Bring all ingredients to room temperature. This will create a smoother, well-mixed batter.
  • Drain the canned jalapenos. It’s important to drain canned jalapenos before mixing them into the cornbread mix, or you run the risk of making the batter too wet. I like to drain and even pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Save a little extra shredded cheddar cheese for the top. It adds a visual appeal and another level of cheesy goodness. It is optional, but a few jalapeno slices on top adds a nice touch, too.
  • To make it in a Cast Iron Skillet: Prepare the jalapeno cornbread as directed. Spread into an even layer into a very well-greased / buttered 10-inch cast iron skillet. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-22 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
  • To make it in a Muffin Pan: To make corn muffins, prepare the corn muffin batter as directed. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment paper liners (affiliate link). Divide the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-23 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers spring back to the touch. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then serve warm or transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. This cheesy jalapeno cornbread recipe will make 12 muffins.
  • Storage: This cornbread can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, bring to room temperature and preheat in a low-heat (300-degree oven) until warmed through 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 415kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 710mg | Potassium: 137mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 748IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 198mg | Iron: 2mg
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Homemade Brioche Buns https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-brioche-buns/ https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-brioche-buns/#comments Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:40:25 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=55585 Whether you are making my Avocado Bacon Burgers, Bulgur Burger, or Tuna Melt Sandwiches or are in need of delicious…]]>

Whether you are making my Avocado Bacon Burgers, Bulgur Burger, or Tuna Melt Sandwiches or are in need of delicious a bread to serve with your favorite soups, this no-knead brioche-style bun recipe is an easy way to level up any of your meals.

If you have ever tried your hand at making the traditional brioche bun recipe you know that it requires a standing mixer, bread machine, or a lot of elbow grease as there is a lot of kneading involved. However, with this easy brioche bun recipe, you will not need any of that. 

Brioche burger buns from the top view close up distance.

Yes, you do need to tend the dough for the first few hours, but after that, time will do the rest of it for you. Simply follow the instructions or watch the how-to video below in the recipe card to master my technique for fluffy brioche buns that are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

To make homemade brioche hamburger buns, gather unsalted butter, bread flour, instant yeast, kosher salt, large eggs, water, and sugar. If preferred, you can sprinkle them with sesame or poppy seeds at the end for additional flavor and texture.

ingredients in the recipe on a marble backdrop
  • Bread flour: This recipe will not yield great results if you use all-purpose flour. My favorite US brand is King Arthur Unbleached Bread Flour (affiliate link), but I also tested it with other national brands like Bob’s Red Mills (affiliate link), Gold Medal, and even Walmart’s Great Value Bread Flour. They all work well in this recipe.
  • Instant Yeast: I used a packet of Fleischmann’s Rapid Instant Yeast (affiliate link) but this recipe is also tested with Red Star’s Quick Rise Instant Yeast.
  • Salt: I used Diamond Kosher salt (affiliate link). If you use, Morton’s Kosher salt or table salt, use half the amount.
  • Sugar: You can use granulated sugar or cane sugar (for a naturally sweetened recipe). Coconut sugar would also work but the color of the brioche buns will be darker and have a slightly noticeable brown-sugar like the taste.

How to Make This Brioche Bun Recipe?

Making no-knead burger rolls is a hassle-free way to take your sandwich game to the next level. In just a few simple steps, you can make super soft brioche buns like a pro.

Mix the Ingredients

  1. Melt the butter: Put the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook until fully melted. Be sure to watch the butter closely to avoid any burning. Then, turn off the heat and let the butter cool to room temperature.
person showing how to mix dry and wet ingredients for the recipe in a collage
  1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
  2. Whisk the wet ingredients: In a glass measuring cup (or in a small bowl), combine six large eggs, water, and sugar.
  3. Combine the ingredients: Pour the melted butter and egg mixture into the dry ingredients, and use a wooden spoon to stir them together. The mixture could look as if it has more liquid than it should. That is normal. Mix the brioche bun ingredients until no dry flour remains and a uniform mass of dough forms (about 1 minute). Don’t overmix the ingredients. 
  4. Let the dough rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.

Fold the Dough & Let it Rest Overnight

Person showing how to fold the sweet brioche buns dough in a collage of images
  1. Fold the dough: Hold the edge of the dough with your fingertips. Bring the edge towards the center of the dough, and fold it over itself. Then, turn the bowl 45 degrees and repeat the same folding process. Rotate and fold the dough six more times (eight times in total). Once you have folded the entire outer edge of the dough, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Repeat the folding process: Perform the same folding process three more times, waiting 30 minutes between each repetition. Be aware that this is a very sticky dough, but luckily all you have to do is to fold it as directed, so it shouldn’t require much more kneading than that. After the fourth set of folds, cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for 16-48 hours.

Shape the Dough & Let it Rise

The next day, when you are ready to bake, follow these steps to get them ready for baking:

  1. Prepare the sheet pans: Line two sheet pans with parchment paper and set them aside.
person showing how to shape the bread dough in a collage of images
  1. Divide dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface, and cut it into 12 equal portions. You can use a kitchen scale to weigh each ball or get help from a ruler to get equal dough balls.
showing how to shape each dinner roll with images
  1. Shape the rolls: Take one piece of dough and pat it into a 3-inch disk. Take one dough edge and fold it towards the disk’s center. Repeat this edge-folding process until the disk forms a ball. Then, flip the ball folded-side-down and move your hands in small circular motions until the dough forms a smooth, round ball shape. If desired, cover the dough ball with a clean kitchen towel. Repeat this shaping process with the remaining 11 pieces of dough.

Bake

Finally, it is time to bake them. If you have a digital thermometer, use it for foolproof results. 

person showing how to prepare brioche buns ready for baking
  1. Arrange the dough balls: Place the balls of dough onto the prepared sheet pans. I recommend positioning the balls three inches apart, six balls per pan. Remember that the dough will expand as they bake and rest.
  2. Let the dough rise: Cover the sheet pans with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for two hours, or until they nearly double in size. This rising process may take a little longer if you’re making the brioche burger buns in the colder months. You can speed up this process by placing the dough in a warm place within your kitchen.
  3. Preheat the oven: 30 minutes before you bake the brioche rolls, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  4. Brush with egg wash: Whisk together one egg and a tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Then, remove the plastic wrap over the dough balls and brush each brioche roll generously with the egg wash. If making a sesame brioche bun, sprinkle your brushed rolls with sesame seeds.
dinner rolls before and after they are baked on a sheet pan
  1. Bake: Place each baking tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown on top, or the internal temperature of the brioche rolls reaches 190 degrees F. Be sure to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
  2. Serve: Remove the butter brioche rolls from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Store, Freeze & Thaw?

The best part of this recipe is that you can make a batch, enjoy some right away, and store the rest for later. This way, you have the most delicious brioche hamburger buns for your summer cookouts, holiday dinners, or for an easy weeknight dinner at a moment’s notice.

If you plan on using this recipe for brioche hamburger buns or sandwiches, I recommend slicing your rolls in half before putting them in the fridge or freezer for easier use later on.

  • Storage: When covered with a clean kitchen towel, your homemade brioche buns can sit on the kitchen counter at room temperature for up to one day. For more extended storage, place your buns in an airtight container or a plastic storage bag with as much air removed as possible. Then, place the container in the fridge, and your light brioche buns will stay fresh for up to six days.
  • Freezing instructions: Place your brioche burger buns in an airtight container or a freezer-safe Ziploc air with as little air as possible. Your brioche will stay fresh for up to six weeks in the freezer. 
  • Thawing & toasting: One great thing about these homemade buns is that you don’t need to thaw your bread before using it. Simply place your frozen brioche in a toaster oven at low heat (275 degrees F oven) for 10 minutes. Or, if you’ve already cut your frozen rolls in half, you can put the slices in a toaster until they reach your desired heat.

How to Use Brioche Buns?

It doesn’t matter whether you use these brioche buns for hamburgers or as an easy dinner side. There are countless delectable ways to put this sweet brioche bun recipe to use.

Homemade brioche buns on a sheet pan with a knife on the side
  • As rolls with butter: Nothing pairs better with a hearty main than buttery brioche buns. Whip up this brioche rolls recipe for any meal you would serve with bread; soups and stews, salads, or any of your dinner recipes. And voila, just like that, the perfect meal any day.
  • For burger buns or sloppy joes: Step up your hamburger game (be sure to try my Avocado Bacon Burger or these Buffalo Chicken Burgers) with a bun that is as mouthwatering as the meat. Set your juicy burger atop this traditional brioche bun, and every bite will explode with rich flavor.
  • As sandwich bread: Cut your brioche-style bun in half, fill it with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have one of the richest and most flavorful sandwiches you’ve ever eaten.

Expert Tips

You don’t have to be a celebrity chef to make gourmet burger buns at home. With my foolproof tips, your brioche burger bun recipe will come out golden, soft, and buttery every time.

  • Use bread flour: To make your bread as fluffy and round as the iconic NYT light brioche buns, I recommend using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, allowing more gluten to develop in your bread. This gluten, in turn, gives bread its structure and body.
  • Watch the melted butter: Be sure to keep an eye on the pot when melting your butter. Butter melts very quickly and can burn if not watched properly.
  • Use room-temperature ingredients: For the best results use room-temperature ingredients. If you are a regular bread baker, you know that yeast is temperature-sensitive, so having all your ingredients at room temperature before adding them to your dough is crucial for the best burger brioche bun.
  • Use a kitchen scale: A kitchen scale (affiliate link) will give you the best results when cutting your soft dough into equal pieces. Simply measure each portion of brioche dough before rolling it into a ball.
  • Make smaller-sized buns: To make smaller brioche buns for sliders, divide your dough into up to 14 pieces. Keep in mind, however, that smaller buns will bake for less time. I suggest baking slider-sized rolls for 20-22 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 190 degrees F.
  • Make large brioche burger buns: If you want larger brioche buns, divide your dough into fewer pieces. However, you will likely need to bake your larger buns for more time. For instance, when making ten brioche rolls, I recommend baking them for 25 minutes or until their centers reach 190 degrees F.
  • Toast your buns on the grill: If you plan on using your brioche buns for burgers, I recommend lightly toasting the brioche buns on the grill right before using them. This extra step will give each toasted brioche bun a deliciously warm and crisp exterior.

I know a lot of people favor the brioche bun recipes from popular publications like New York Times Cooking, King Arthur Flour, and Food Network. However, having been making this recipe for many years, I can assure you that it is just as good. Once you give it a try, I am sure you will agree. 

FAQs

When making the perfect brioche hamburger bun, the last thing you want to do is stress about the details. Put your mind at ease with this expert guide to making the tastiest butter brioche bun.

What is a brioche roll?

Brioche rolls—commonly misspelled as “brioch bun,” “briche bun,” and “brioch rolls”—are a light, faintly sweet, and buttery type of French bread. People often use brioche bread for burgers, sandwiches, and dinner rolls.

What is in a brioche bun?

A brioche bun is usually made with unsalted butter, bread flour, instant yeast, kosher salt, large eggs, water, and sugar.

Can you freeze brioche buns?

Yes! These quick brioche buns will stay fresh in the freezer for up to six weeks when stored in an airtight container. If you keep them in a freezer-safe plastic bag, be sure to get out as much air as possible before freezing.

Should I toast brioche buns for burgers?

Though you don’t have to toast your brioche burger buns, I highly recommend it. Toasting your brioche will give it a delectably warm and gently crisp texture.

How to toast brioche buns?

To toast your homemade hamburger buns, place them in a toaster oven at low heat for 10 minutes. If you have already sliced your buns in half, you can toast them in a regular toaster or on the grill.

What is the difference between a brioche bun vs. a hamburger bun?

A brioche bun is a type of hamburger bun made from French brioche bread. Brioche burger buns tend to be slightly sweeter, richer, and more pillowy than traditional hamburger buns.

How many calories are in a brioche bun?

One of these brioche guns is about 316 calories.

Other Bread Recipes You Might Also Like

If you are a fan of baking bread, here are a few other fan-favorite bread recipes you might also like. Tender, filling bread is just an oven away with this star collection.

If you try this Homemade Brioche Buns recipe or any other bread recipes on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It is a great help to others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

brioche buns on a sheet pan from the top view
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Homemade Brioche Buns Recipe

These homemade brioche buns make the perfect hamburger bun, sandwich bread, or dinner rolls. Whether you serve them for grilled burgers during the barbecue season or for your holiday table during Thanksgiving or Christmas, they are the perfect accompaniment to all your meals.
Course Bread
Cuisine French
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 4 hours
Overnight Rest 16 hours
Total Time 20 hours
Servings 12 buns
Calories 316kcal

Ingredients

  • 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (8 ounces)
  • 3 ¼ cups bread flour (17 ¾ ounces)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (aka rapid rise yeast) – 1 packet
  • 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 large eggs plus 1 extra egg or brushing them before baking – at room temperature
  • ½ cup water at room temperature
  • cup sugar 2 ⅓ ounces
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds optional

Instructions

  • Place butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it melts. Be sure to keep a close eye on it as butter burns easily. Turn the heat off and let it cool to room temperature.
  • Meanwhile, whisk together bread flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, water, and sugar.
  • Pour the egg mixture into dry ingredients along with the now-cooled butter. Using a wooden spoon, stir to combine. It will look like it is too wet and almost like there is more liquid than there should be. That is normal. Do not overmix. Mix it until no dry flour remains and a uniform mass forms. This should take about 1 minute.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  • Holding the edge of the dough with your fingertips, fold it over onto itself halfway towards the middle. Turn the bowl 45 degrees and repeat the same process. Do this 6 more times. It should be 8 times in total. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Repeat folding and rising every 30 minutes three more times. After the fourth set of folds, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 16-48 hours.
  • Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. Set them aside.
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces*. If you have a kitchen scale, you can use it to weight each piece to ensure rolls equal size rolls. Or, you can use a ruler as a guide to cut them.
  • Working with one piece at a time, pat dough into a 3-inch disk. Holding the edge of the dough, fold the edges of the dough onto itself halfway towards the center. Repeat folding until it forms a ball. Flip it over and move your hands in small circular motions to form it into a smooth round ball. This dough might be sticky so feel free to sprinkle it with a bit of flour if it sticks to your hands. Repeat the same process with the rest of the balls.
  • Place them in the prepared sheet pans. I recommend 6 brioche buns per sheet pan with them being 3-inches apart from each other. Be aware that they do get larger as they rest and after they are baked.
  • Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rise for 2 hours or until they “almost” double in size. If you are baking these brioche buns during the summer months, they rise faster. And if you are making it during the colder months, it might be a little longer. I recommend placing them in a warmer part of your kitchen to speed up the process.
  • Thirty minutes prior to baking, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Make an egg wash by whisking together one egg with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Remove the plastic and brush each brioche roll generously with the egg wash. If using, sprinkle them with sesame seeds.
  • Place both sheet pans into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown on top (or until the internal temperature reaches 190 degrees F.) making sure to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
  • Take them out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes, let them cool on a wire rack, or serve while they are still warm.

Video

Notes

  • * Smaller or larger brioche buns: This recipe is quite versatile in that you can divide the brioche dough into 14 pieces for smaller brioche buns or 10 pieces for larger ones. However, be aware that the time of baking might change based on the size. For 10 pieces, I would recommend 25-27 minutes and for 14 pieces, 18-22 minutes of baking time.
  • Salt: I made this recipe using Diamond Kosher Salt. If you use Molton’s kosher salt or table salt please use half the amount of salt.
  • Storage: The best way to store these brioche rolls is in an airtight container or a plastic storage bag (with as much air removed as possible.) in the fridge. They should be fresh for up to 6 days. Be sure to warm them in a low-heat oven before serving.
  • Freezing Instructions: If you want to freeze them, be sure to slice them in half horizontally before freezing. Place them in an airtight container or a plastic bag and remove the air out of it as much as possible. Freeze for up to 6 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 316kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 326mg | Potassium: 90mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 586IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg
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Almond Flour Bread (Quick Low Carb Recipe) https://foolproofliving.com/almond-flour-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/almond-flour-bread/#comments Tue, 28 Jun 2022 21:21:32 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=27214 If you have been following me for a while you know that I love baking with almond flour. As a…]]>

If you have been following me for a while you know that I love baking with almond flour. As a matter of fact, I have a collection of almond flour recipes that are some of the most liked, shared, and baked recipes on this blog.

Today’s recipe, Almond Flour Bread, a savory quick bread recipe, is yet another addition to my collection. Though I have to admit, it is one that took quite a bit of trial and error to be good enough to be published.

Healthy Almond Flour Bread sliced and photographed from the front view.

I believe the reason why it took so long is that I was after a savory almond loaf bread recipe that tasted more like bread than an almond cake and none of the recipes I tried gave me one that I would use to make a sandwich. Until now.

Low Carb Flourless Almond Flour Bread Recipe sliced and photographed from the top view.

The trick is all about the eggs. Rather than using whole eggs, I replaced a few of them with egg whites (removed egg yolks) and it made all the difference in texture. The exceptional flavor was just the added bonus. Believe it or not, I had four slices as soon as the bread came out of the oven!

Just like my Almond Flour Waffle and Almond Flour Biscuits recipe, this easy almond flour bread is healthy, light, low carb and with the right adjustments, Paleo, Keto Diet friendly, and Whole30, too. So I guess those four slices were totally worth it – no guilt included!

If you are thinking like, how the heck do you make homemade bread using almond flour, read on. I promise it is easier (and more delicious) than you think.

Almond Bread Ingredients

Like it is in many baked goods, this gluten-free almond flour bread recipe has 2 sets of ingredients; wet and dry ingredients:

Wet Ingredients:

The wet ingredients are photographed from the top view.
  • Vegetable Oil – I used grapeseed oil, but any mild-flavored oil, such as extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil, will do.
  • Large Eggs, plus Egg Whites – The combination of whole eggs and egg whites create a light-textured bread.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – Subtly sweet, the acid in ACV activates the baking soda and brings balance to the flavor.
  • Liquid Sweetener – Although completely optional, any of your favorite liquid sweeteners will do. I prefer maple syrup, but you can use honey or agave if that’s all you have on hand.

Dry Ingredients:

Dry ingredients are photographed from the top view.
  • Blanched Almond Flour – I highly recommend blanched almond flour (made from ground almonds) over almond meal (which is almond flour with the skins still on) more so for its light golden color, but you can use them both interchangeably. If you have the time you can easily make your own almond flour (made with grinding almonds in a high-powered blender (like Vitamix) or a food processor).
    If you want to make this recipe using almond flour, my favorite brand is Blue Diamond (affiliate link). I love that it tastes great and has almost no odor, which is usually an issue with most packaged almond flours sold in stores.
    If you want to use almond meal (affiliate link), my favorite brand is Barney. 
  • Ground Flaxseeds – There are two options – regular Flaxseed or Golden Flaxseed. Either one can be used, however, regular flax seeds will give you specks throughout your gluten-free loaf, whereas golden flaxseed creates a more neutral-colored bread.
  • Baking Soda – The leavening agent reacts with the apple cider vinegar, giving you both lift and that beautiful golden hue.
  • Baking Powder – A bit more lift never hurt any low carb gluten-free bread recipe. To make this a paleo bread, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar as a substitute for 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
  • Fine Sea Salt – I specify fine sea salt since it dissolves easily into the batter. If you do not have fine sea salt on hand, you can also use the same amount of kosher salt.
Wet ingredients are photographed from the top view while a woman is whisking them.

How to make bread with almond flour

The batter is photographed while a woman is mixing it.
homemade low carb bread batter is placed in a loaf pan and photographed from the top view.

To make this Gluten-Free Almond Flour Bread, simply:

  1. Whisk together the wet ingredients. Add the oil, eggs, egg whites, apple cider vinegar and liquid sweetener to a medium bowl. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until smooth and emulsified (see PRO TIP below).
  2. Mix together the dry ingredients. In a larger bowl, add the almond flour, flaxseed, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix together until well combined and create a slight well in the center.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Fold together gently until just combined. Transfer to the prepared loaf pan (more on that below) and smooth the top.
  4. Bake. For 35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown, springs back to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  5. Serve. Slice and serve. A few of my favorite options include slicing the loaf like sandwich bread and placing a few slices of roasted turkey, lettuce, and mashed avocado between two slices.

How To Serve:

Go ahead, slice your almond flour loaf and enjoy it right away. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Make avocado toast: Spread it with a thick layer of my avocado dressing and sprinkle it with bagel seasoning for a low carb breakfast.
  • Use it to make a sandwich: Layer it with baked turkey bacon, tomato, and lettuce for a keto BLT.
  • Serve in place of toast with a layer of cream cheese (or peanut butter) and your favorite jam.

Expert Tips:

  • Mix it well: Thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients until emulsified is important as it helps the bread bake to the right texture. When the wet ingredients become one smooth mixture and slightly thickened, you know it’s ready! Be sure to watch the quick how-to video below to see what it looks like.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: As it is with most baked goods, it is important to have your ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

FAQs

How many carbs are in almond flour bread?

As you might already know, almond flour has lower carbs compared to traditional flours (i.e. all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, etc.) that are used to make bread. One serving of this homemade low carb bread recipe is only 9.1 grams of carbs compared to 13 grams in a slice of traditional bread. Since almond flour is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, it’s the best way to get your bread fix while still being mindful of your diet.

How to make this quick almond flour bread paleo, keto, and whole30 compliant?

This almond meal bread is really easy to adjust to your diet by making just a few small changes to the ingredients. To make it Paleo, Keto, and Whole30 compliant, simply omit liquid sweetener and use a grain-free baking powder. The taste difference will be very minimal and you will still end up with a healthy, low-carb, and sugar-free bread you can serve for any meal.

How to Store Almond Flour Bread?

This homemade almond flour loaf keeps best in an airtight container or wrapped in parchment paper and stored on the kitchen counter for up to 3 days. However, if you keep it in the fridge it will store for up to a week. I would avoid wrapping it in plastic wrap, however, as it will trap moisture and completely ruin the texture of the bread.

How To Freeze This Bread?

For longer storage, slice it, place in a plastic freezer storage bag, seal tight, label, date and freeze for up to 3 months. Any time the craving strikes, simply remove a slice (or two!) from the freezer and pop it in your toaster!

What kind of loaf pan should I use to bake ground almond bread recipe?

I baked this basic almond flour bread in an 8X4 loaf pan (affiliate link) and the bread you see in these photographs was baked in that pan. However, you can use a 9X5 loaf pan (affiliate link) as well. I tried it both ways and the difference in baking time was just so minimal that I wouldn’t change a thing. However, please know the version baked in a 9X5 loaf pan is a little shorter in height and longer in length.

Can I use chia seeds instead of flax seeds?

While some readers made this recipe using chia seeds instead of flax seeds, I prefer the version made with flaxseeds. Ground flax seeds help with rising and provide a better form and shape to the overall bread.

Can I substitute coconut flour for almond flour?

This almond flour bread recipe will not work with coconut flour. While both of these flours are gluten-free, they behave differently in baked goods. Therefore, I do not recommend substituting one for another.

For the full nutritional information (including calories), please be sure to check out the recipe card above.

Low Carb, Paleo and Keto friendly Almond Flour Bread Recipe is sliced and photographed from the top view.
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Almond Flour Bread Recipe

The best quick and easy to make Almond Flour Bread recipe that is low carb, grain-free, gluten-free, dairy free, low sugar, paleo and keto friendly. Great to use as a sandwich bread or as toast for breakfast.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 288kcal

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

  • 5 Tablespoons (70g) Vegetable Oil, plus more for greasing – I used grapeseed oil but olive oil would also work
  • 2 large Eggs room temperature
  • 3 large Egg Whites room temperature
  • 1 Tablespoon (15g) Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 Tablespoon (21g) Maple Syrup (or honey)

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (224g) Blanched Almond Flour
  • ¼ cup (28g) Ground Flaxseed
  • ¾ tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder*
  • ½ tsp Fine Sea Salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8X4 (or 9 x 5-inch) loaf pan with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, egg whites, apple cider vinegar and maple syrup until emulsified*
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, ground flaxseed, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Make a slight well in the dry ingredients and mix in the egg mixture until just combined.
  • Transfer to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake 35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Video

Notes

  • Thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients until emulsified is important as it helps the bread bake to the right texture. When the wet ingredients become one smooth mixture and slightly thickened, you know it’s ready!
  • Substitute for baking powder: To make this a paleo-diet-friendly bread, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar as a substitute for 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
  • Can I use chia seeds instead of flax seeds? While some readers made this recipe using chia seeds instead of flax seeds, I prefer the version made with flaxseeds. Ground flax seeds help with rising and provide a better form/shape to the overall bread.
  • Storage: This homemade almond flour loaf keeps best in an airtight container or wrapped in parchment paper and stored on the kitchen counter for up to 3 days. However, if you keep it in the fridge it will store for up to a week.
  • Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, slice it, place in a plastic freezer storage bag, seal tight, label, date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, pop it in your toaster to warm it up. There is no need to thaw.

Nutrition

Calories: 288kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 348mg | Potassium: 74mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 59IU | Calcium: 111mg | Iron: 2mg
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Homemade Corn Tortillas https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-corn-tortillas/ https://foolproofliving.com/homemade-corn-tortillas/#comments Sat, 30 Apr 2022 17:09:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=4909 It is no secret that I am a huge Mexican food. And what is more Mexican than corn flour tortillas?…]]>

It is no secret that I am a huge Mexican food. And what is more Mexican than corn flour tortillas?

I first learned how to make homemade corn tortillas when on my very first visit to Mexico. The hotel we were staying at had a wonderful restaurant with young ladies making fresh corn tortillas outside. Watching them make hundreds of fresh corn tortillas was almost therapeutic.

A man is serving corn tortillas placed on top of each other with text on the image

On our way back we stopped by the local market and bought a wooden tortilla press (like this one – affiliate link) similar to the one that they use in the hotel. Ever since that visit, I have been making my own corn tortillas.

If you have never tried your hand at making your own tortillas, consider this your how-to guide. Made with two simple ingredients, making corn tortillas from scratch is easier than you think. Below you will find a detailed explanation for everything you need to know including ingredients, equipment, technique, and storage to make the best corn tortilla recipe at home.

A woman is making corn tortillas in Mexico - Learn how to make authentic corn tortillas and get the recipe for Homemade Corn Tortillas

Recipe Ingredients

To make homemade corn tortillas, you can use either fresh masa (which is why some people call these corn masa tortillas) or masa harina and water. Some people prefer to use a little bit of salt as well.

masa harina mixed with water in a bowl

You can find fresh masa at your local Latin grocery store (or Mexican markets) in their refrigerated section. While most people say that using fresh masa is the best, if you are not living in an area where you can get your hands on it, you can make your own tortillas using masa harina and water. I like Maseca brand (this White Maseca Corn Flour, in particular) and buy it from our local grocery store in their international food aisle.

If you are living in the United States, Bob’s Red Mills sells masa harina as well. I have tried this recipe with that brand and it worked very well.

Do I Need A Tortilla Press?

The answer is yes and no.

While I was reading through different sources, I saw that some people press out the dough in between two flat surfaces like dinner plates or large and heavy books. Some even feel comfortable patting out tortillas in between their two hands. Though from what I understand, getting a thin corn tortilla by using your hands requires quite a bit of experience.

I personally think that it is much easier to use a tortilla press. If you do not have access to wood and heavy one like the one we have (or a similar one like this one – affiliate link), most kitchen equipment stores and various online sources sell aluminum or cast-iron corn tortilla press (like this Tortilla Press) for less than $20. Therefore, if you are serious about making corn tortillas at home, I think it is a good investment.

How To Make Corn Tortillas

Make The Dough

To make the masa dough, mix masa harina with warm water (tap water is fine)in a large bowl using a wooden spoon. Or, you can knead the dough by hand as well. Cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest for 20-30 minutes on the kitchen counter.

person making the dough for corn taco shells

When ready, add in some cool water, one tablespoon at a time, until it has a soft texture without being sticky. Here, keep in mind that the dough for corn tortilla is a very forgiving one. If it gets too dry, you can add a little more water. And if it gets too wet, you can add a little more masa. The “right consistency” should feel similar to Play-doh.

Before pressing and cooking the tortillas, make sure to cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying.

How To Use a Tortilla Press

Next, we press the dough balls into and make tortilla.

First, you will need a medium-heavy plastic bag to fit over the plates of the press. I used a large (gallon-size) Ziploc bag. I trimmed the zipper top so that it is a large rectangular piece. With that being said, you can use two pieces of plastic as well.

person showing how to make masa tortilla recipe

Second, you lay the plastic bag on the tortilla press, making sure that it covers both the upper and bottom parts of the press.

Third, divide the dough into smaller 14 to 15 equal pieces. You can eyeball it or use a small cookie scoop to make it easier on yourself.

Roll each piece into small dough balls (each piece should be similar to a golf ball). Working one piece at a time, place one dough ball on the bottom part of the press, cover it with the top of the Ziploc bag, close the press, and push it down (while applying gentle pressure).

Then, gently peel back the tortilla from the plastic and transfer it to your hand.

How Do You Cook Corn Tortillas

To cook corn tortillas, you can either use a griddle or a cast iron skillet.

The important thing here is to make sure that the skillet is very hot before starting the cooking process. I usually let it heat up over medium high-heat for 5 minutes or so.

Once fully warm, place the first tortilla on the pan. It will first stick and that is normal. But then in 15 seconds or so it will release itself and that is when it is time to flip it. After that, it should take around 30 to 45 seconds for it to fully cook. You will know that it is good to go when you start seeing brown spots on top.

Keep an eye on it as it is cooking and adjust the temperature as necessary to prevent it from drying.

According to Rick Bayless, a perfect tortilla is one that balloons up like pita bread after the second flip.

Here, one thing most resources suggest is to use your fingers to flip instead of a spatula, because the edges will curl up as the heat cooks the tortillas. At first, I didn’t feel comfortable flipping it with my hands, but towards the end, with a little practice, I was more comfortable with it. Still, if you don’t feel comfortable, a spatula works just fine.

How Do You Get Soft Tortillas

One thing that is so important to note here is that the cast iron skillet (or griddle) only cooks the outside of the tortilla. In order for it to cook thoroughly, you need to cover them with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a bowl with a lid. As it sits, the heat from the growing sack will continue the cooking process resulting in softer and completely cooked corn tortillas.

So, as you can imagine, the softest one is the one at the very bottom. Therefore, when you are ready to serve, it is best to start from the very bottom of the stack.

Corn tortilla bread in a bowl with a lid

Storage Instructions

I think these DIY corn tortillas are best on the day that they are made. That is why, I usually make just the amount that I plan to serve.

However, to find out the best way to store tortillas, we made two batches of this recipe. You have two options when it comes to storing corn flour tortillas. They both work with a caveat:

  • At room temperature: Keep them wrapped with a clean kitchen towel and let them sit on the kitchen counter. It will be fresh for up to two days but if you leave it longer it will start developing mold.
  • In the fridge: Bring them to room temperature, wrap them tightly with a kitchen towel, and store them in the fridge. They should keep fresh for up to 4 days. However, as they sit in the fridge they get hard so I recommend a quick warm-up on the skillet before serving.

Once you get a hang of the process, you can make the most delicious corn tortilla bread in your very own kitchen in less than 20 minutes. And after that, I can almost guarantee you that you will never want to go back to buying them from the supermarket.

How To Serve

You can use these corn tortilla shells in so many ways. Here are a few ways to get you started:

  • Make a taco: Try my Quinoa Black Bean Tacos or Brisket Tacos Recipe
  • Enchiladas: Soak these corn tortilla wraps in your favorite enchilada sauce, roll them up with your favorite filling, and bake them in a casserole with more sauce on top.
  • Homemade tortilla chips: Cut them into small triangles and fry them in oil. Sprinkle with salt and serve with guacamole on the side. This combo makes the best Mexican Party Food.

FAQs

What is Masa Harina and Where Can I Find It?

Masa harina is dried corn dough. It is used to make corn tortillas by mixing it with water. Nowadays, most supermarkets sell Maseca brand masa harina. You can also find it online. This White Maseca Corn Flour is what I usually use.

How to make yellow or blue corn tortillas?

For yellow tortillas, use Maseca Instant Yellow Corn Masa Flour and for blue tortillas use Maseca Blue Corn Instant Masa Flour.

When to use corn tortillas versus flour tortillas?

It is a personal choice so you can use them interchangeably in most recipes. Since flour tortillas are sturdier, they work well when making burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Corn tortillas, on the other hand, work well with Mexican Tacos and when making huevos rancheros.

Other Mexican Inspired Recipes You Might Like:

If you try this Homemade Corn Tortillas recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

corn tortillas placed on top of each other being held by a man
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Corn Tortillas Recipe

Making Corn Tortillas at home is much easier than you think! Here is a comprehensive guide to help you learn how to make Homemade Corn Tortillas with step-by-step photos along with all the information you need including technique, ingredients, and equipment.
Course Bread
Cuisine Mexican
Diet Vegan
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 15 corn tortillas
Calories 49kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups masa harina for tortillas, (I used the Maseca brand) (9.5 ounces)
  • 1 cup hot tap water plus 2 tablespoons
  • 2 tablespoons water at room temperature

Instructions

  • Using a wooden spoon, mix masa harina and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons hot tap water in a large mixing bowl. Cover it with stretch film and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Begin working the masa harina and water mixture with your hands. Add 2 more tablespoons of cool water (one at a time) for the dough to reach an ideal texture, where it is still soft without being sticky (similar to Play-Doh). If, for some reason, it is dry (looks like it is cracked), add a little more water. Or if it is too wet (or sticky), let it sit on the kitchen counter uncovered for it to dry out for a little bit or add more masa.
  • Divide the dough into 15 equal pieces (for this recipe, it was 1.4 ounces each) for 6-inch corn tortillas. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel.
  • Cut each sides of a Ziploc bag to make it a large rectangular piece. Lay it on the tortilla press, making sure it covers both the upper and bottom parts of the press. (See the pictures in the blog post)
  • Roll each piece by placing on the bottom part of the press lined with the Ziploc bag. Cover it with the top of the Ziploc bag, close the press and push it down. Gently peel back the top layer of the bag, and transfer it to your hand. Place it on a baking sheet and cover it with a kitchen towel. Continue with pressing the rest.
  • In the mean time, heat a cast iron skillet in medium heat for 10 minutes. You want to make sure it gets really hot.
  • When you are ready to bake, place a tortilla on the skillet and let it cook for 15 seconds. At first it will stick, but then, if your temperature is right (read the blog post for more information on the temperature), it will come off easily for you to flip it. Let it cook for another 30-45 seconds or until it is lightly browned.
  • As tortillas are cooked, transfer them in a basket cloth lined with a kitchen towel. Allow them to continue cooking with the steam (from their own heat) inside the basket for at least 10 more minutes before serving.

Notes

  • It is optional, but if you want you can swap some of the water with chicken/vegetable stock and add salt into your dough.
  • How to get soft tortillas: One thing that is so important to note here is that the cast iron skillet (or griddle) only cooks the outside of the tortilla. In order for it to cook thoroughly, you need to cover them with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a bowl with a lid. As it sits, the heat from the growing sack will continue the cooking process resulting in softer and completely cooked corn tortillas. So, as you can imagine, the softest one is the one at the very bottom. Therefore, when you are ready to serve, it is best to start from the very bottom of the stack.
  • How to Store: I think these DIY corn tortillas are best on the day that they are made. That is why I usually make just the amount that I plan to serve. However, to find out the best way to store tortillas, we made two batches of this recipe. You have two options when it comes to storing corn flour tortillas. They both work with a caveat:
    • At room temperature: Keep them wrapped with a clean kitchen towel and let them sit on the kitchen counter. It will be fresh for up to two days but if you leave it longer it will start developing mold.
    • In the fridge: Bring them to room temperature, wrap them tightly with a kitchen towel, and store them in the fridge. They should keep fresh for up to 4 days. However, as they sit in the fridge they get hard so I recommend a quick warm-up on the skillet before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 49kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 35mg | Fiber: 1g | Vitamin A: 28IU | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg
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Brioche Loaf (No Knead Recipe Made By Hand) https://foolproofliving.com/brioche-loaf/ https://foolproofliving.com/brioche-loaf/#comments Thu, 23 Dec 2021 08:52:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=4282 Why is This Recipe Awesome? Soft, golden, and subtly sweet, this baked brioche loaf is nearly irresistible. Here are just…]]>

Why is This Recipe Awesome?

Soft, golden, and subtly sweet, this baked brioche loaf is nearly irresistible. Here are just a few other reasons why this is the best brioche bread recipe out there:

  • There’s no need for a stand mixer or an arm workout in this overnight brioche recipe. Just like in my No-Knead Bread and Olive Loaf, time will do the work for you in this no-knead dish! Plus, you can use this exact dough to create delicious Homemade Brioche Buns with just a few small changes to the process.
  • This brioche bread recipe yields two loaves, which means you can enjoy a slice right out of the oven and freeze the rest for later. Did I mention brioche freezes really well?
  • There are countless brioche bread uses, whether you’re looking for mouthwatering sandwich bread, Thanksgiving stuffing (like my Wild Mushroom Stuffing), or even French toast!
Brioche bread sliced with a bread knife next to it

What is Brioche Bread?

Containing many of the same ingredients as regular bread, brioche is a French bread made with eggs, sugar, and a healthy amount of butter. The traditional brioche recipe is known for its golden-brown coat, fluffy center, and rich taste, and it’s often used in breakfast and dessert dishes. 

Perhaps it’s because of this versatility that there are so many names for brioche bread: French brioche, French brioche bread, French butter bread, French sweet bread brioche, and more!

Ingredients

Brioche bread ingredients are simple, inexpensive, and pantry-ready. All you need is bread flour, instant yeast, kosher salt, large eggs, water, sugar, and unsalted butter.

ingredients in brioche bread are laid out on a marble backdrop

Helpful Ingredient Notes:

  • Flour: I find that the best flour for brioche is bread flour. If you are living in the US, I highly recommend buying the King Arthur Flour brand. Because bread flour has more protein than all-purpose flour, it produces better-quality gluten, which helps bread rise.
  • Butter: If possible, use European-style unsalted butter, such as butter from Vermont Creamery. Its higher fat content will give your brioche more richness, body, and flavor.
  • Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature when adding them to your dough mixture.
  • Rapid Rise Yeast: This recipe uses rapid rise yeast that is also known as instant yeast. When shopping for yeast, be sure to not pick active dry yeast instead. They are different from each other and will yield different results, especially when it comes to rising times.

How to Make Brioche by Hand?

Making brioche bread doesn’t have to be a struggle. Put the ease back into your oven with my foolproof instructions for making the perfect brioche.

Prep the Dough

person making brioche dough by hand in four photos
  1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour, instant yeast, and salt until they are thoroughly blended.
  2. Whisk the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, water, and sugar. While whisking, add the melted, unsalted butter into the egg mixture. Continue whisking until the wet ingredients are fully combined.
  3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, stir the ingredients together until all the dry flour is integrated into a uniform mass (about 1 minute).
  4. Let the dough rest: Cover bowl with plastic wrap and leave it for 10 minutes.
Person folding the dough in four images
  1. Fold the dough: Grip one edge of the dough with your fingertips. Then, fold it over itself, toward the center of the dough. Turn the bowl 45 degrees and repeat the same folding motion. Continue rotating the bowl 45 degrees and folding the dough to its center until you have completed one full circle (there should be 8 folds in total). Wait 30 minutes. Then, repeat this folding process 3 more times, being sure to wait 30 minutes between each repetition.

Overnight Rest

  1. Let the dough rest: Once you complete the fourth round of folding, tightly cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let the dough sit for 16-48 hours.

Shaping the Brioche Loaf

Person prepping the brioche dough in four images
  1. Transfer the dough: Next day, remove the dough from the fridge and place it on a lightly floured work surface.
  2. Cut the dough: Divide dough into 6 equal pieces.
  3. Roll 6 balls: Take one piece of dough and fold its edges toward its center until it forms a round disk. Then, flip the disk over—folded side facing down—and roll your palm over its surface until the piece becomes a smooth ball. Sprinkle additional flour over the dough if it begins sticking to your hands. Repeat this shaping process for the remaining 5 pieces.
  4. Let the balls rest: Cover the six dough balls with plastic wrap, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.

Bake & Cool

  1. Prepare the pans: Use melted butter to grease two loaf pans.
brioche balls in brioche tins before and after they are risen
  1. Let the dough rise: Place three dough balls in each brioche bread pan, cover loosely, and let rise for 2 hours in a warm place in your house. Towards the end, you will see that they would double in size.
  2. Prepare the oven: 30 minutes before baking, adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Then, take a baking sheet, turn it upside down, and place it on top of the oven rack. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
person brushing brioche with egg wash
  1. Brush and bake the dough: Remove the plastic wrap from the loaf pans and brush both loaves with an egg wash. Then, set both pans atop the overturned baking sheet and bake them for 35-45 minutes, rotating each loaf pan halfway through. The loaves are done when they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190 degrees F.
Brioche bread in oven baking
  1. Let the brioche cool: Remove both pans from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Then, remove the brioche from each pan and let them finish cooling on a wire rack. Make sure each loaf is completely cool before slicing.
Brioche loaves are cooling on a wire rack top view

Equipment Notes

If you want to learn how to cook brioche, you’re going to need the right tools! These simple equipment tips will make sure every loaf comes out flawlessly.

  • Baking stones and baking sheets can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Just make sure you use one or the other to bake your loaves evenly.
Photo showing the difference between two different loaf pan sizes
  • Both 9’’ X 5’’ and  8½’’ X 4½’’ loaf pans will work for this recipe. Not only is there no difference in baking time, but they also result in similarly-sized brioche slices. 
  • Using a wire rack will cut your cooling time in half and ensure that every inch of your enriched dough cools evenly.

How to Store, Freeze, and Thaw

The best part about homemade brioche bread? How long it lasts! Whether you eat a warm loaf straight from the oven or save it for later, your taste buds will adore this buttery treat.

  • Storage: To store this homemade brioche, wait until the loaves are fully cool. Then, cut the bread into thick slices and seal the slices in airtight Ziploc bags. Once placed in the fridge, these slices will stay fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Similar to most other bread recipes, brioche freezes exceptionally well. Just let the bread cool, slice it, and place the slices into airtight Ziploc bags 1-2 layers thick. The bread can then stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • To Thaw: You don’t need to thaw brioche bread once you take it out of the freezer. Just pop each slice into the toaster until it reaches the desired level of warmth.

PRO TIP: Take the guesswork out of food storage by writing the date of storage on each Ziploc bag. This is the best way to keep tabs on how long the bread has been in the fridge.

person showing how to store homemade brioche bread slices in a plastic bag

What to Make With Brioche Bread

If you’ve ever wondered, “What can I make with brioche bread?” then these recipe ideas are just what you need! Whether you’re indulging your sweet tooth or serving up dinner, you’ll find the perfect French brioche recipe right here:

  • Brioche Waffles: Instead of spending hours in the kitchen mixing waffle batter, skip the hassle by using brioche bread instead. This morning fix is as easy as it is scrumptious.
  • Mushroom Stuffing: No one should settle for bland stuffing. Bring your Thanksgiving to life with this buttery, lush, and savory brioche stuffing. Did I mention it’s vegetarian?
  • Brioche French Toast: Sweet brioche dough, fresh-picked berries, and thick caramel sauce make for a breakfast impossible to resist. Who can say no to this buttery morning treat?
  • Bread Pudding: Nothing pairs better than the soft bread of homemade brioche, warm cinnamon, and thick cream. You’ll be asking for seconds of this gooey pumpkin dessert.

Expert Tips:

Want to bake bread like a pro without spending hours in the kitchen? This homemade brioche recipe will be a piece of cake once you learn these no-fuss baking tips.

Person slicing brioche bread from the front view
  • Let your brioche fully cool before slicing it. This will ensure that your loaf maintains its shape and won’t lose any fluffiness during the cutting process.
  • This brioche dough recipe is one of the most forgiving recipes in a baker’s arsenal. Simply follow my directions, and your five-star loaves are guaranteed to please!
  • The egg wash in this recipe is optional, but it will help give your brioche its signature flakiness and golden-brown color.
  • I recommend slicing your brioche thicker than you would other breads. Because the dough is so soft and puffy, thick slices ensure each portion is as satisfying as possible.
  • When cutting your brioche dough into 6 equal portions, you can use a kitchen scale to weigh each piece to make sure they’re of equal size.

FAQs:

There’s no secret to learning how to make brioche dough by hand…but asking a few questions never hurts! Know all you need about this quick brioche recipe with a few fun facts.

What temperature to bake brioche loaf?

The ideal brioche baking temperature is 350 degrees F.

What does brioche bread look like?

Brioche bread can take many forms, from whole loaves to small brioche buns. However, the bread usually has a lustrous, golden-brown exterior and a light, spongy center.

What makes brioche different to most breads?

The key difference between brioche and white bread is that brioche is enriched, meaning it contains eggs and butter. The high egg and butter content in brioche bread give it a sumptuous flavor and airy texture.

How long does brioche bread last?

Brioche bread will last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Do you toast brioche loaf?

Yes! Toasting sliced brioche bread is one of the most delicious and simple ways to serve this effortless loaf.

Can you freeze brioche loaf?

Yes, frozen brioche bread can last up to 3 months when sealed in an airtight container. I also recommend slicing the bread before freezing it to make defrosting it even easier.

Is brioche loaf sweet?

This French brioche bread recipe uses only 1/3 cup of sugar for 3 1/4 cups of bread flour so the level of sweetness is very minimal.

Other bread recipes you might like:

[/su_note]

This French Brioche recipe is adapted from The Cook’s Illustrated’s No-Knead Brioche recipe with minor changes to their original recipe.

Loaves of brioche bread cooling on a wire rack
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Brioche Loaf Recipe

This brioche loaf is a delicious French yeasted bread deliciously packed with butter and eggs. Made easily by hand, this foolproof no-knead method requires no special method.
Course Bread
Cuisine French
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Overnight rest and rising time 16 hours
Total Time 16 hours 55 minutes
Servings 2 loaves
Calories 264kcal

Ingredients

  • 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (8 oz) – plus more to grease loaf pans
  • 3 ¼ cups bread flour (17 ¾ oz)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast aka rapid rise yeast – (One 1/4 oz. packets)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt*
  • 6 large eggs Plus one more egg to brush before baking
  • ½ cup water room temperature
  • cup sugar (2 ⅓ oz.)

Instructions

  • Place unsalted butter in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Cook until fully melted. Set it aside and let it cool to room temperature.
  • Whisk together bread flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, water, and sugar. Pour in the unsalted butter and whisk until fully combined.
  • Add the wet ingredients into the dry ones and stir with a wooden spoon until no dry flour remains and a uniform mass forms. This should take about 1 minute.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  • Holding the edge of dough with your fingertips, fold it over onto itself halfway towards the middle. Turn the bowl 45 degrees and repeat the same process. Do this 6 more times. It should be 8 times in total. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Repeat folding and rising every 30 minutes three more times. After the fourth set of folds, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 16-48 hours.
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
  • Working with one piece at a time, pat dough into a 4-inch disk. Holding the edge of the dough, fold edges of the dough onto itself halfway towards the center. Repeat folding until it forms a ball. Flip it over and move your hands in small circular motions to form it into a smooth round ball. Feel free to sprinkle it with a bit of flour if it sticks to your hands. Repeat the same process with the rest of the balls.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  • Grease two loaf pans with melted butter.
  • Place three brioche balls in each loaf pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for 2 hours.
  • Thirty minutes before baking, adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Turn a baking sheet upside down and place it on the oven rack in the middle position. Preheat it to 350 degrees.
  • Remove plastic wrap and brush the now-risen dough with an egg. Set them on the baking sheet and bake until golden brown, rotating pans halfway through baking, 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 190 degrees F.
  • Take them out of the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes on a wire rack. Being careful not to burn your hands, carefully loosen the edges with a knife. Remove them from the pan, and let them cool to room temperature on a wire rack before slicing.

Video

Notes

  • I used Diamond Kosher Salt. If you use Morton Kosher Salt please use half the amount of salt listed.
  • If you watch the video, you will see that I used two packets of instant yeast. A reader, who made the recipe, pointed out that it works well with only one. I tried it with one packet and she was right so I changed the recipe. Please be advised that this recipe works both with one packet (1/4 oz. per packet) or two packets of instant yeast (aka rapid-rise yeast).
  • Brioche Buns: 
  • Homemade Brioche Buns: You can use this brioche dough to make rolls that you can use as burger buns, sandwich bread, or dinner rolls. If that is what you prefer, be sure to check out my recipe for Brioche Buns.
  • Storage: To store this homemade brioche, wait until the loaves are fully cool. Then, cut the bread into thick slices and seal the slices in airtight Ziploc bags. Once placed in the fridge, these slices will stay fresh for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Similar to most other bread recipes, brioche freezes exceptionally well. Just let the bread cool, slice it, and place the slices into airtight Ziploc bags 1-2 layers thick. The bread can then stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • To Thaw: You don’t need to thaw brioche bread once you take it out of the freezer. Just pop each slice into the toaster until it reaches the desired level of warmth.
  • Both 9’’ X 5’’ and  8½’’ X 4½’’ loaf pans will work for this recipe. Not only is there no difference in baking time, but they also result in similarly-sized brioche slices. 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 264kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 172mg | Potassium: 105mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 379IU | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 2mg
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Almond Flour Biscuits https://foolproofliving.com/almond-flour-biscuits/ https://foolproofliving.com/almond-flour-biscuits/#comments Tue, 02 Nov 2021 18:39:53 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=45048 Why Should You Try This Recipe? If you follow a low-carb, gluten-free, paleo, or keto diet, you’ve probably wondered, Can…]]>

Why Should You Try This Recipe?

If you follow a low-carb, gluten-free, paleo, or keto diet, you’ve probably wondered, Can you make biscuits with almond flour? Not only can you make them, but you should! Here’s why:

  • Quick, easy, and cost-effective, these gluten-free almond biscuits come together with 1 bowl, 5 ingredients, and less than 35 minutes! No need to dirty your food processor or any other equipment.
  • Perfect for those following a special diet following a gluten-free or grain-free diet, this versatile recipe works for anyone on any occasion, from afternoon keto tea biscuits to gluten-free Thanksgiving rolls.
  • Like my other homemade biscuits recipes, Sweet Potato Biscuits and Whole Grain Biscuits, these easy paleo biscuits can be served in place of bread whenever you need a savory, stress-free side.
  • This sugar-free biscuits recipe makes healthy living a cinch, whether you’re trying to cut back on sweets or accommodate a diabetic lifestyle.
Low carb biscuits on a plate close up

Ingredients

Only 5 simple ingredients are necessary to make these keto almond flour biscuits: almond flour, baking powder, kosher salt, unsalted butter, and large eggs. Plus, if you do not have almond flour on hand, you can save yourself a trip to the grocery store by learning How to Make Almond Flour at home.

Ingredients for the recipe are placed on kitchen counter

Hungry for more mouthwatering options? Make this almond flour biscuit recipe your own with pantry-ready add-ins, like shredded cheddar cheese, honey, maple syrup, erythritol, garlic powder, chives, and more!

How to Make Almond Biscuits at Home

Once you learn how to make almond biscuits at home, you’ll never want to make another side dish again. In just 5 steps and 35 minutes from start to finish, these bite-sized treats will be ready to eat.

person showing how to make keto almond biscuits in four images
  1. Mix the dry ingredients: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix together almond flour, baking powder, and kosher salt together until they are fully combined. Then, add in the melted (and cooled) butter and eggs into the almond flour mixture.
  2. Fold the mixture: Fold the wet ingredients and dry ingredients together until the biscuit batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
  3. Place biscuits on a cookie sheet: Using a large ice cream scoop, scoop biscuit dough (~2 tablespoons each) onto a lined baking sheet. Position the biscuits at least 1-inch away from one another. 
  4. Bake: Place the baking tray in the hot oven for 25 minutes. Once the biscuits are fully baked, let them cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Serve!

Variations

The best part about these almond bread biscuits? Their versatility! From cheddar cheese to honey, a few easy add-ins can turn these traditional biscuits from a savory side to a sweet treat.

  • Keto Almond Flour Cheese Biscuits: Just add half a cup of shredded cheddar and 2 tablespoons of chopped chives for simple almond flour cheddar biscuits. Or, for a creamier option, you can even use shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Paleo Biscuits: To give this sugar-free biscuits recipe a sweet twist, just add in 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup.
  • Almond Meal Biscuits: While blanched almond flour and almond meal can be used interchangeably in this recipe, the version with almond meal would be a bit more dense and darker in color. While the below version is made without any addition of sugar, you can add 2 tablespoons of honey, if you want it to be a bit sweeter.
  • Whole30: To make whole30 biscuits, just use ghee instead of melted butter.
grain free biscuits with almond flour are on a plate from the top view

How to Serve

Nothing beats a dish you can make for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whether you’re looking for keto Thanksgiving biscuits or almond flour breakfast biscuits, this easy recipe can do it all!

  • For Breakfast: Start your day off right when you serve these Almond Flour drop Biscuits with cream cheese. If you are a lover of sweet biscuits for breakfast drizzle them with a little bit of honey.
  • Tea Time: Butter and jam make an irresistible pair with these keto tea biscuits.
  • Dinner Rolls: No time to bake bread? No problem! These keto dinner biscuits are the perfect side to serve alongside soups, salads, or even dinner meals in place of bread.
  • For Thanksgiving: Served with gravy, this 35-minute recipe will become your new holiday go-to.

How to Store, Freeze, & Thaw These Paleo Biscuits

Now that you’ve found the best paleo / low carb biscuit recipe out there, the last thing you want to do is let them go to waste. Savor every bite of this filling treat with these easy storage tips:

  • Storage: These almond flour biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
  • Freezer: To freeze the biscuits, let them first reach room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw: When ready to eat, remove the biscuits from the freezer and let them rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Then, place them in a 250-degree F. oven for 5-7 minutes.

Expert Tips

Knowing how to put together these grain-free biscuits with almond flour shouldn’t be a secret. That’s why I’ve put together my best foolproof tips on how to get this recipe perfect every time.

  • Use an ice cream or cookie scoop to make sure your biscuits are evenly sized. You don’t need to press the dough flat or use a pastry cutter, either.
  • Place your biscuits 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Because Almond Flour Biscuits don’t spread like regular biscuits, you don’t have to worry about your dough running together.
  • Transfer each warm biscuit to a wire rack after removing them from the oven to cut their cooling time in half.
  • If you need to make more biscuits, you can double the recipe for a larger output. There’s a reason why this is the best almond biscuits recipe out there!

FAQs:

Want to know more about this almond flour biscuit recipe? You’ll find all you need to know about this customizable dish right here.

Are Almond Flour Biscuits healthy?

Yes! Rich in nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium, almond flour is a healthy alternative to other flours (and may even help lower cholesterol!)

How many carbs in Almond Flour Biscuits?

This low-carb biscuits recipe has 6 grams of net carbs per serving.

Can you freeze Almond Flour Biscuits?

Yes. Once your biscuits have reached room temperature, they can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. 

Can I substitute almond flour for regular flour in biscuits?

Though almond flour makes for a healthy, diet-friendly substitute for regular flour, it cannot be swapped on a one-to-one basis. Because almond flour doesn’t absorb liquid at the same rate as all-purpose, gluten-free, or wheat flour, you’ll need to find a conversion rate that works when baking biscuits made with almond flour.

Other Low Carb Recipes You Might Like:

Having been featuring almond meal recipes since 2016, this website has so many low-carb recipes you can choose from. Below are a few that are loved by readers:

If you try this Almond Flour Biscuits recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

low carb almond biscuits close up
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Almond Flour Biscuits Recipe

Almond Flour Biscuits recipe that happens to be gluten-free, paleo, and keto-friendly. Made with only 5 ingredients, this low carb biscuits recipe is going to be your favorite accompaniment to all your breakfast dishes, soups and stews.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 8 biscuits
Calories 253kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour or 8.4 oz.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon honey or keto friendly sweetener optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
  • Mix together the dry ingredients, almond flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl until no lumps remain.
  • Add in the wet ingredients, melted butter, and eggs. If using, add in your choice of sweetener. Stir until fully combined.
  • Using a large ice cream scoop, or 2 tablespoons measuring spoon, scoop biscuits onto the prepared sheet pan making sure that they are at least 1-inch apart from each other.
  • Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown.
  • Transfer onto a wire rack to cool for 5-10 minutes.
  • Serve.

Video

Notes

  • Keto Almond Flour Cheese Biscuits: Just add half a cup of shredded cheddar and 2 tablespoons of chopped chives for simple almond flour cheddar biscuits. Or, for a creamier option, you can even use shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Paleo Biscuits: To give this sugar-free biscuits recipe a sweet twist, just add in 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup.
  • Almond Meal Biscuits: While blanched almond flour and almond meal can be used interchangeably in this recipe, the version with almond meal would be a bit more dense and darker in color. While the below version is made without any addition of sugar, you can add 2 tablespoons of honey, if you want it to be a bit sweeter.
  • Whole30: To make whole30 biscuits, just use ghee instead of melted butter.
  • Storage: These almond flour biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
  • Freezer: To freeze the biscuits, let them first reach room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw: When ready to eat, remove the biscuits from the freezer and let them rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Then, place them in a 250-degree F. oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 231mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 337IU | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 2mg
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Nut and Seed Bread https://foolproofliving.com/pumpkin-cranberry-nut-loaf/ https://foolproofliving.com/pumpkin-cranberry-nut-loaf/#comments Fri, 08 Oct 2021 07:28:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=11056 Fan of using superfood packed seeds used in the recipe? Be sure also to check out our Seed Crackers recipe…]]>

Fan of using superfood packed seeds used in the recipe? Be sure also to check out our Seed Crackers recipe for a homemade cracker you can make from scratch.

healthy nut and seed bread sliced from the front view

Ingredients:

This list of ingredients might look long, but they are mostly ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients for the recipe are portioned out on a marble backdrop

To start, grab raw walnuts, pumpkin seeds, old fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free certified), dried cranberries, whole flaxseeds, psyllium husks (also known as psyllium whole husks), chia seeds, kosher salt, ground cinnamon and nutmeg, unsweetened pumpkin puree, water, maple syrup, and vegetable oil. 

Substitutions & Variations:

  • Switch up the nuts: The recipe below uses raw walnuts and pumpkin seeds (aka pepitas) but you can play with your favorite nut and seed combinations. Chopped raw almonds and raw sunflower seeds is another delicious combination.
  • Dried fruits: I used dried cranberries (sweetened with orange juice) but you can use any of your favorite dried fruits. Dried apricots, raisins, and even dried figs would work. 
  • Change up the spices: It’s easy to change the flavor profile of this recipe if you’re not a fan of cinnamon or nutmeg.Other spices like ground ginger, cardamom, or even cloves would all go well in this bread.
  • Vegetable Oil: You can use coconut oil (melted and cooled), avocado oil, a light olive oil, or sunflower oil in this recipe.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use unsweetened pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. If you are not a fan of pumpkin you can also use applesauce.
  • To make it keto friendly: If you’re on a keto diet simply omit the dried fruit in the recipe and use an equal amount of erythritol syrup instead of maple syrup to make this nut & seed bread keto-friendly. 
  • Whole flaxseeds: You do not need to grind your flaxseeds for this recipe.

A Quick Note on Psyllium Husks:

The one, somewhat unusual ingredient in this gluten-free bread recipe is psyllium husks. If you are not familiar, allow me to explain:

  • Psyllium husks, also named as Psyllium Whole Husks, is an ingredient used in keto and gluten-free baking in place of eggs because when it comes into contact with liquid it turns into a gel-like consistency. It is also a natural source of fiber that doesn’t include wheat. This Keto Dinner Rolls recipe is a good example of how it is used in a bread recipe.
  • It has multiple health benefits, but the most popular one is that it acts like a sponge in the digestive tract, absorbing toxins and bad bacteria. For that reason, it is also marketed as a “colon cleanser” for people with digestive difficulties.
  • It can be found in the gluten-free aisle of your local grocery store, natural health food stores, or online (affiliate link). 
  • If this is your first time consuming psyllium husks, it is recommended to try a small dose as various sources on the internet cautions people as some allergic reactions or side effects have been recorded.
  • As you are shopping for psyllium seed husks, you might see a similar product called Psyllium Husk Powder. They are not the same thing so be sure to purchase the correct one.

How to Make This High Protein Bread?

walnuts and pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet
  1. Roast the nuts & seeds: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Spread walnuts and pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet and roast until lightly browned, 10-15 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
person mixing the dry and wet ingredients in a bowl
  1. Mix the dry ingredients: Place all the dry ingredients—cooled walnuts and pumpkin seeds, oats, cranberries, flaxseeds, psyllium husks, chia seeds, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and grated nutmeg—in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
  2. Add in the wet ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree, water, maple syrup, and oil. Mix until all of the dry ingredients are mixed with the wet ones.
Bread is placed in a loaf pan and covered with stretch film.
  1. Let it rest: Line a 9X5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray. Transfer the dough into the loaf pan rounding slightly on top. Be aware that it will not rise in the oven as it bakes. Cover with stretch film and let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours upto 8 hours.
  2. Bake: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. If preferred, sprinkle it with sesame seeds and bake it for 1 hour 15 minutes. Be aware that the finished product will turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Let cool completely and then slice before serving.

How to Serve 

There are so many great ways to serve this vegan nut bread loaf and below are a few of my favorite ways to share it with my family and friends:

  • Spread it with cheese: A generous amount of mascarpone or cream cheese spread over this nut and seed bread is guaranteed to satisfy. But if you want to treat yourself, then try my maple cream cheese frosting.
  • With your favorite nut butter and/or jam on top: If you prefer to take the vegan route, try it with a generous spread of your favorite almond, peanut butter, or jam. 
  • Serve it as a part of your meat and cheese board: Slice it and make it a part of your holiday cheese boards to serve with your favorite fruits, dips, and spreads.
High protein bread sliced from the top view

How to Store, Freeze, and Thaw

This no-flour nut bread stores well, which is one reason why I always include it in my weekly meal prep.

  • To Store: Bring it to room temperature, slice it, enjoy some, and place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. When ready to serve, heat it in your toaster oven.
  • To Freeze: Slices of this nut and seed bread can be placed in an airtight container and frozen for up to two months. Just make sure it is fully cooled to room temperature before freezing.
  • To Thaw: Take it out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for 10 minutes and toast in the oven or in your toaster.

Expert Tips

Here are a few helpful tips to help you make this healthy nut bread recipe:

  • Prep it before bed: If you think the waiting part is the hardest, do what I do and make it right before bed. That way, when you wake up the next day, all you have to do is bake it and enjoy it for breakfast.
  • Roasting Nuts: I get it. Roasting nuts requires an extra few minutes, and you can skip the roasting part. However, doing so brings out the earthy flavors of the nuts and is, in my opinion, worth the effort.
  • Let the bread cool completely: I know how hard it is to wait for freshly baked bread to cool, but it is a necessary step that should not be skipped.
  • Are you unsure what your bread will look like when it’s done? Because this recipe doesn’t use flour or a leavening agent (like baking soda or baking powder), it doesn’t rise. Spread your dough artfully, and it will look the same way when it’s finished baking in the oven!
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Why Should You Make This Recipe? 

If you are a fan of roasted nuts and enjoy consuming superfood-packed seeds, you are in for a treat. Because this healthy nut and seed bread recipe is packed with those and more. But that is not all! Here are a few more reasons why you should give it a go:

  • Low carb: While all nut breads are high in protein, my nut & seed bread is also low carb! Served in slices, it is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack when you need an extra energy boost.
  • Gluten Free and Keto-Friendly: This vegan nut bread loaf is free of eggs, dairy, and flour. It’s gluten free and with a few minor adjustments, it’s easily adaptable to be keto-friendly, too! 
  • Easy to customize: You can take this basic recipe and customize it with what you have on hand. Don’t care for pumpkin puree? Use my unsweetened applesauce. Not a fan of walnuts? Use pecans (or even a mixture of nuts). Sky’s the limit to make it your own.
  • Wholesome and Nutritious: This gluten free seed bread is nutritious and packed with healthy fats and superfoods like chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds. Plus, it’s high in protein, which means it is very filling and it goes great with any meal including your favorite soups and salads!
  • Perfect Meal Prep: It stores and freezes well so you can make a batch over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

Other Bread Recipes You Might Also Like:

I adapted this recipe from my friend Alanna’s (of Bojon Gourmet) cookbook Alternative Baker. Her book and blog are my go-to sources for GF baking. As she was creating this nut and seed loaf, she was inspired by the Adventure Bread made at Josey Baker’s The Mill in San Francisco.

And if you can’t get enough of delicious homemade bread, here are a few more recipes for you:

Nut and Seed Bread Sliced from the front view
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Nut and Seed Bread

This nut and seed bread is a vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, high protein, and no flour recipe that you can make with 20 minutes hands on time. It stores well so you can make it a part of your weekly meal prep, use some right away and freeze the rest for later.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours 35 minutes
Servings 8 Slices
Calories 488kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups raw walnut halves (175 g)
  • 1 cup raw unsalted pumpkin seeds (140 g)
  • 2 ¾ cups GF old-fashioned rolled oats (250gr)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (145 gr)
  • ½ cup flaxseeds (90gr)
  • 1/3 cup psyllium husks (30gr)
  • ¼ cup chia seeds (40gr)
  • 2 teaspoon kosher salt (9 gr)
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 can unsweetened pumpkin puree (15-oz)
  • 1 cup water (235) ml
  • ¼ cup maple syrup (60ml)
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil (60ml) avocado, sunflower and light olive oil would all work
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 325 F (165 C) degrees. Spread the walnuts and pumpkin seeds on a sheet pan and toast until golden, 10-15 minutes. Take it out of the oven and set aside.
  • Mix together the rolled oats, cranberries, flaxseeds, psyllium husks, chia seeds, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the walnuts and pumpkin seeds.
  • Add the pumpkin puree, water, maple syrup, and oil. Using a wooden spoon, stir well to make sure that the all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the dough is moistened through.
  • Line a 9X5 (23cm X 13cm) loaf pan with parchment paper. Gently transfer the dough into the pan. Gently pack it into the pan while rounding it slightly on top. Cover it tightly with a piece of plastic wrap and let it sit in room temperature, 2-8 hours.
  • When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Bake the loaf for 1 hour 15 minutes. The top of the loaf will be deeply bronzed.
  • Let it cool completely.

Notes

Substitutions & Variations:

  • Switch up the nuts: The recipe below uses raw walnuts and pumpkin seeds (aka pepitas) but you can play with your favorite nut and seed combinations. Chopped raw almonds and raw sunflower seeds is another delicious combination.
  • Dried fruits: I used dried cranberries (sweetened with orange juice) but you can use any of your favorite dried fruits. Dried apricots, raisins, and even dried figs would work. 
  • Change up the spices: It’s easy to change the flavor profile of this recipe if you’re not a fan of cinnamon or nutmeg. Other spices like ground ginger, cardamom, or even cloves would all go well in this bread.
  • Vegetable Oil: You can use coconut oil (melted and cooled), avocado oil, light olive oil, or sunflower oil in this recipe.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use unsweetened pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. If you are not a fan of pumpkin you can also use applesauce.
  • To make it keto-friendly: If you’re on a keto diet simply omit the dried fruit in the recipe and use an equal amount of erythritol syrup instead of maple syrup to make this nut & seed bread keto-friendly.
  • Whole flaxseeds: You do not need to grind your flaxseeds for this recipe.
  • As you are shopping for psyllium seed husks, you might see a similar product called Psyllium Husk Powder. They are not the same thing so be sure to purchase the correct one.

Storage & Freezing Instructions:

  • To Store: Bring it to room temperature, slice it, enjoy some and place the leftovers in an air-tight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. When ready to serve, heat it in your toaster oven.
  • To Freeze: Slices of this nut and seed bread can be placed in an airtight container and frozen for up to two months. Just make sure it is fully cooled to room temperature before freezing.
  • To Thaw: Take it out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for 10 minutes and toast in the oven or in your toaster.
  •  

Nutrition

Serving: 8slices from a 9X5 loaf pan. | Calories: 488kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 591mg | Potassium: 353mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 19IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 143mg | Iron: 3mg

This recipe is adapted (with almost no changes) Alana Taylor-Robins cookbook – Alternative Baker.

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Paleo Pumpkin Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/paleo-pumpkin-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/paleo-pumpkin-bread/#comments Sat, 02 Oct 2021 13:21:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=35967 Today’s recipe, Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Almond Flour is the newest addition to my collection of almond flour recipes. If…]]>

Today’s recipe, Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Almond Flour is the newest addition to my collection of almond flour recipes. If you are like me, and enjoy baking with healthier ingredients that are minimally sweetened with natural sweeteners this pumpkin bread recipe is one to try. 

If you are a fan of gluten-free and paleo quick bread recipes, be sure to also check out my Almond Flour Zucchini Bread, Paleo Banana Bread with Almond Flour, Almond Flour Bread Recipe, and Paleo Apple Cake recipe.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread with almond flour sliced from the top view

Why Should You Make This Recipe?

  • Simple ingredients & 15 minutes of hands-on time: Packed with warm fall spices like pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon, and sweetened with coconut sugar it comes together in less than 15 minutes and requires no special equipment. 
  • Make it a quick bread or serve it as a muffin: I based this recipe on my Paleo Pumpkin Muffins recipe that I shared a few years back. The recipe is versatile enough to make it a quick bread or a muffin.
  • Made with wholesome ingredients: While I am a huge fan of the traditional Pumpkin Bread made with butter, this almond pumpkin bread uses no oil. Plus, it is made with almond flour and sweetened a bit less than a cup of coconut sugar, it is the perfect loaf if you are in need of a healthy pumpkin bread recipe.

Ingredients You Will Need:

This gluten-free paleo pumpkin bread recipe is made with canned pumpkin puree (for convenience) and a handful of pantry ingredients broken up into dry and wet categories. They are all simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry.

Dry Ingredients:

Almond Flour Pumpkin Loaf dry ingredients placed on a marble backdrop

For the dry ingredients, gather together blanched almond flour (almond meal would also work), baking soda, pumpkin spice, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.

Pro Tip: Do not have almond flour at home? No worries, you can easily make it at home using raw almonds in just a few quick steps. Check out my foolproof step-by-step guide to making almond flour at home.

Wet Ingredients:

For the wet ingredients, you will need large eggs (at room temperature), coconut sugar, pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), and vanilla extract.

Wet ingredients for Paleo pumpkin loaf

Additionally, if you want you can use optional toppings like dark chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds.

A quick tip on using oil: You might be wondering if I forgot to add oil to the list of ingredients. Well, I promise you that it is not a typo.

One of my favorite things about baking with almond flour is that, in most cases, baked goods made with almond flour do not require an additional amount of oil. I learned this when I was testing my Almond Flour Chocolate Cake

While this is not the case with every almond flour recipe, I strive to minimize to use of any additional oil if I can. Luckily, this pumpkin bread with almond flour recipe worked perfectly without needing any oil added to the ingredients list. 

How To Make Paleo Pumpkin Bread?

All it takes is two bowls, a loaf pan, and a few easy steps to make this recipe for grain-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free pumpkin bread with almond flour. Simply:

Person mixing dry ingredients in a bowl from the top view
  1. Mix together the wet ingredients: Place almond flour, baking soda, pumpkin spice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Give it a good whisk to break the chunks of almond flour and ensure that all dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Person mixing the wet ingredients from the top view
  1. Whisk wet ingredients until emulsified: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until emulsified.
Person mixing the batter for clean pumpkin bread
  1. Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and mix until everything is thoroughly mixed.
  2. Prepare the loaf pan: I used a loaf pan that is  8 ½ by 4 ½ but 9 by 5 would also work. Simply grease it generously with oil and line it with a piece of parchment.
Batter placed in a loaf pan ready for baking
Almond flour pumpkin loaf batter topped off with chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds
  1. Transfer the batter to the loaf pan and bake: Pour the pumpkin bread batter into the loaf pan. Distribute it evenly using a spatula (or the back of a spoon). If using, sprinkle with naturally sweetened chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds and bake in a preheated 350 F degree oven for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Almond Flour Pumpkin Bread sliced on a cutting board
  1. Allow it cool and serve: Let the almond flour pumpkin loaf cool for 5-10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and serve.

How To Store and Freeze?

  • Storage: If you have any leftovers of this refined sugar-free pumpkin bread, let pumpkin bread cool to room temperature, slice it, and wrap the slices in parchment paper. You can store them on the kitchen counter up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Pro Tip: I prefer using parchment paper instead of plastic wrap as using plastic traps moisture and makes your pumpkin bread overly wet.

  • Freezing: Alternatively, you can place individually wrapped slices in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer up to a month. When ready to serve, simply pop it in your microwave or oven to warm up.

How To Serve?

This easy paleo pumpkin bread is delicious enough to serve by itself with your morning cup of coffee or tea. However, you can also take it up a notch and spread it with a few tablespoons of:

You can also serve it with a cup of whole milk or homemade almond milk for the perfect fall treat for yourself.

Sliced sugar free pumpkin bread with almond flour from close up view

Recipe Variations:

  • Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread: I used a few tablespoons of my favorite naturally sweetened chocolate chips to top it off at the end. However, if you want you can also add in chocolate chips into the batter and turn it into a more chocolate-y pumpkin chocolate chip bread.
  • Whole30 Pumpkin Bread: Whole30 diet restricts any use of sugar or sugary things, but if you are in need of a treat without breaking the rules you can make this almond flour pumpkin bread recipe without coconut sugar.
  • Keto Pumpkin Bread: If you are following a ketogenic diet then you can swap coconut sugar with monk fruit sweetener (affiliate link) using the same amount (¾ cup). If you are new to using monk fruit sweetener in your baking this is a great article to learn more about it.

If you thought that you cannot make pumpkin bread without flour think again. Because let me tell you, this grain-free and gluten-free pumpkin bread recipe is just as good, if not better than the added sugar and oil-packed version of pumpkin bread that is sold at grocery stores. 

Can’t Get Enough Pumpkin? Here are a few more recipes:

If you try this Paleo Pumpkin Bread recipe or any other recipe on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

Paleo pumpkin bread with almond flour sliced
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Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Almond Flour Recipe

Paleo Pumpkin Bread recipe that is also gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, refined sugar-free, grain-free, and keto and Whole30 friendly with a few adjustments. With only 9 ingredients, you can make this almond flour pumpkin bread with only 15 minutes of hands on time. Serve with a cup of coffee, milk or tea for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Course Breakfast Sweets, Dessert
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 244kcal

Ingredients

For the dry ingredients:

  • 2 cups almond flour or almond meal 238 grams
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

For the wet ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs at room temperature
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar 100 grams
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree*
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping (optional)

  • A handful of pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F. degrees. Grease and line an 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 loaf pan (or 9X5 would also work) with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Mix together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together all the wet ingredients.
  • Fold in the wet ingredients to dry ones and mix until they are fully combined.
  • Place the batter into the prepared loaf. Distribute it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Top it off with pumpkin seeds and chocolate chips, if using.
  • Bake for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  • Let it rest on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes, remove from the pan, and let it cool before slicing.
  • Serve.

Notes

  • How To Store? If you have any leftovers of this refined sugar-free pumpkin bread, bring it to room temperature, slice it, and wrap the slices in parchment paper. You can store them on the kitchen counter up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • How To Freeze? You can place individually wrapped slices in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to serve, simply pop it in your microwave or oven to warm up.
  • Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned or homemade pumpkin puree. If you are using canned pumpkin puree make sure that it is not pumpkin pie filling.

Nutrition

Calories: 244kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 191mg | Potassium: 86mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 4855IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2mg
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Best Challah Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/challah-bread-recipe/ https://foolproofliving.com/challah-bread-recipe/#comments Mon, 06 Sep 2021 08:58:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=4040 I think we can all agree that there is something so satisfying about baking bread at home. Kneading the dough,…]]>

I think we can all agree that there is something so satisfying about baking bread at home. Kneading the dough, letting it rise, and baking it to perfection is an easy way to reach the pinnacle of instant gratification that we are always craving. And when it comes to bread recipes, for me, this homemade Challah bread recipe is at the top. This is not only because it looks gorgeous but also because it is one of the easiest bread recipes to make. 

Looking at the pictures you might not think so (and even feel intimidated), but I assure you, after reading this post with all my tips and tricks and watching the video I made on making Challah from scratch, you will succeed in making this Jewish braided bread in your very own kitchen, even if this is your first time.

Challah loaf on a wire rack with toppings around

What is Challah bread?

Challah is a traditional Jewish yeast-risen egg bread served on Shabbath or throughout the year on Jewish religious holidays. What makes it different is that it is traditionally made by braiding strands of dough and it is surrounded by tradition and loaded with symbolism.

While most people refer to this bread as Challah bread, the proper name for this Jewish bread name is Challah. It is pronounced as haa.luh.

Throughout the history, it has also been referred to as:

  • Shabbath Bread
  • Jewish Celebration Bread
  • Jewish Knotted Bread
  • Hollow Bread
  • Kitke Bread
  • Rosh Hashanah Celebration Bread
  • Jewish Sweet Bread

Ingredients

The list of ingredients for my easy dairy-free challah recipe is as follows:

Ingredients for jewish braided bread on a white marble laid out
  • All purpose flour
  • Kosher salt
  • Dry rapid rise yeast (not active dry yeast)
  • Large Eggs (at room temperature)
  • Vegetable oil – I find that the best oil for Challah is an oil with very minimal flavor like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil.
  • Lukewarm Water (80-90 degrees F)
  • Honey or sugar
  • Egg wash & optional toppings like sesame seeds and poppy seeds
  • Nonstick cooking spray or more oil to grease the bowl

How to make it using my easy foolproof method?

The process of making this braided Challah bread recipe has 6 steps:

  1. Prepare and mix the ingredients following my recipe for Challah dough
  2. Knead the dough
  3. Let it rise (twice)
  4. Roll the dough and braid
  5. Brush it with egg wash and let it rise
  6. Bake

Below you will find step-by-step instructions on how to make my honey Challah with helpful photos.

Prepare & Mix The Ingredients:

Start with the dough. To do so:

Mixing dry ingredients to make kinke bread
  1. Place flour, salt, and rapid rise yeast in a large mixing bowl.
a woman is mixing the dry ingredients to make Jewish braided loaf
  1. Give it a whisk to make sure it is thoroughly mixed.
Adding eggs into the bowl with dry ingredients from the top
  1. Add in the wet ingredients; eggs, vegetable oil, honey, and luke warm water.
person mixing everything with a wooden spoon
  1. Using a wooden spoon stir until combined. It will be sticky and messy but do your best to incorporate as much as you can.

How to knead the dough?

To knead Challah dough:

person kneading the dough
  1. Sprinkle your kitchen counter with flour and scrape the dough out of the bowl onto the countertop.
A woman is kneading Challah dough on a marble surface
  1. Begin kneading by pushing it down using the heels of your hands. Fold it in half towards yourself, press down, and continue kneading all the while lengthening and stretching to activate the gluten. 

    If it is getting sticky, add a little more flour. This is why I always set aside a cup of flour on the counter.
Smooth Challah dough after it is kneaded
  1. Continue to knead, fold and turn dough for about 10-12 minutes or until it is smooth and no longer sticky adding flour as needed.

How much additional flour should I use during the kneading process?

The answer to this question depends on a few things like the temperature of your kitchen, the humidity, and how large your eggs are. However, I find that for two loaves of Challah, 6 cups of flour with an additional cup on the side to use during kneading is a good place to start. 

As you are kneading, you can add in a little bit more flour at a time until the dough is easily rolling without sticking to the counter. At the end of 10 minutes, what we are looking for is a soft dough that is easy to knead without sticking to the surface.

And remember, we are not trying to incorporate more flour into the dough. Rather, using just enough to make sure it is no longer sticking to the counter as we are kneading it.

Let The Dough Rise

A woman is placing the dough in a lightly oiled bowl
A woman is covering the dough with kitchen towel.
  1. Place dough into a lightly oiled large bowl, turn it around to make sure it is coated with the oil, cover it with a clean kitchen towel (or plastic wrap), and let it rise in a warm place that is also a draft-free spot for about an hour and a half to two hours or until doubled in size.
Woman punching the risen dough to get the air bubbles out
  1. When ready, punch the dough to get all the air bubbles out pressing it and kneading it in the bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for a second time.

PRO TIP: While I highly recommend the second rise, I made this bread several times without letting it rise twice. If you are short on time, you can omit this step and move on to braiding after the first rise.

A woman is transferring Challah dough onto a marble surface
  1. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured work surface, knead it for a few more minutes before rolling out the strands.

Divide and roll the dough to prepare for braiding:

I find that the best way to get even strands is to use a kitchen scale, measuring the initial weight of the dough and dividing it into equal pieces to get even strands.

My egg challah recipe here makes two loaves. Since I am planning to make two six-strand braid loaves, I will need twelve strands. We would have to do a little math here, but I promise it is worth your time.

The total weight of the dough is 54.4 oz (1542 gr), which means I need each strand to be 4.5 oz (127 grams).

A woman is cutting the dough to make strands

On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough, measure one by one on a kitchen scale, and put them aside. 

When completed, roll each piece into a small ball, set aside, and cover with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying as you are working on rolling out the strands and braiding.

A woman is covering small divided dough with kitchen towel to prevent them from drying

If you do not have a kitchen scale, you can eyeball it as well. Do the best you can to cut them in equal portions.

How to roll the strands?

When ready to roll, take each piece, gently push it into a small rectangular (using the heel of your palm) and roll it out by starting in the middle and toward the edges. Gently pinch the seam and continue to roll out.

person rolling jewish knotted bread to make strands
A woman rolling strands of jewish celebration bread

If at any point it becomes difficult to roll out just let it rest for 5 minutes and roll it again. In the end, we want our strands to be around 12 to 13 inches long.

How to shape it? (6-Braid Challah Shaping)

Challah is made in various sizes and shapes, all of which have a meaning. Braided Challah is the most common of all those shapes. Braids can have two, three, four, or six strands, which all have different meanings. 

Person braiding Challah bread

In this post, I am featuring my six-braided Challah recipe. Follow the written instructions below to braid or watch the quick how-to video below:

To braid:

  1. Lay the strands lengthwise on the counter, pinch them together at the top. 
  2. Start from the strand that is on the very left and bring over to the very right. 
  3. Then take the one next to it and bring it to the very left. 
  4. Next, bring the outside right strand in between the four strands that are at the bottom. 
  5. Move the second one from the left to the very right and then bring the on the very left into the between the strands at the bottom.
  6. Continue with repeating the same steps until you are no longer able to move strands.
  7. When you reach the end, bring them in, tie together underneath and pinch ends to make sure that they won’t come undone.

Step by step video showing you how to braid six braided Challah bread:

Challah Baking Instructions

Challah dough is being brushed with egg was

When your Challah is braided, transfer it onto a parchment paper-lined large baking sheet and brush it generously with an egg wash (one egg mixed in with 1 tablespoon of water). 

Let it rise, uncovered, in a warmer part of your house for 45 minutes to an hour or until it is almost doubled in size.

Before baking, brush it with the egg wash one last time and sprinkle it with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.

Woman sprinkling homemade Challah bread with poppy seeds

Place it in a preheated 350-degrees F temperature for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. When you thumb the bread, it should make a hollow sound.

Immediately transfer it onto a wire rack and let it cool for at least 45 minutes before serving.

Can you make the dough the night before?

In his book, Artisan Bread Every Day (affiliate link), Peter Reinhart recommends letting the dough sit in the fridge overnight for a more flavorful Challah recipe.

If you decide to refrigerate your Challah dough, follow the below steps that I learned from his book:

  1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
  2. Cover with stretch film and immediately place in the fridge. Let it rest overnight.
  3. When ready to bake, take it out of the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 2 hours.
  4. Prepare the strands and braid it as I did in this recipe.
  5. Transfer onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush it with an egg wash and let it rise for an hour.
  6. Brush it again with the egg wash and let it rise again for one hour. In the end, it should increase by 1 ½ of its initial size.
  7. Follow the recipe for the rest of the Challah baking instructions.
Freshly baked Challah bread with a knife on the side from the front view

How to store & how long will it keep?

I think this Challah bread recipe is best on the day it is baked. However, it will still be good for the next 2-3 days if you keep it in an airtight container.

If you want you can freeze leftovers. To do so:

  1. Bring your braided loaf to room temperature on a wire rack.
  2. You can freeze Challah as a whole loaf or slice before freezing.
  3. Place in a freezer bag, get the air out as much as possible, and store in the freezer for up to a month.

When ready to serve, to defrost:

  1. Remove Challah from the freezer 4-5 hours before serving. Let it come to the room temperature on the counter.
  2. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Heat it in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until it is warmed thoroughly.

I do not recommend freezing raw braided Challah bread.

Can I make Challah using a standing mixer?

You sure can. Simply place all the ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer attached with the dough hook. Mix in medium-low speed (8-10 minutes) until the dough is fully mixed and no longer sticky. You may have to add in more flour based on the temperature of your kitchen and the humidity levels.

Recipe Variations

Challah recipe with honey versus granulated sugar:

Most people use honey as the sweetener and make a round Challah during the Rosh Hashanah celebrations. I prefer using honey as my sweetener as we follow a diet made with natural sweeteners only. 

If you want to use granulated sugar instead of honey, you would have to make a few simple adjustments. In the recipe below, you will find instructions to make it with granulated sugar as well.

Can I incorporate raisins or nuts into my Challah?

You sure can. Honestly, until recently I have never made Challah with raisins but after I was introduced to it by a local baker, now I am hooked. 

Honey Challah slices on a cutting board from the front

If raisins are not your thing, you can also fill your braids with chopped nuts, chocolate or go in the savory route and use chopped olives or even sun-dried tomatoes.

You can add the raisins to the dough during the kneading process or better yet incorporate them into the strands as you roll each one. To do so:

Person filling dough with raisins
  1. Take each piece of dough, gently push it into a small rectangular (using the heel of your palm) and fill it with 2 tablespoons of chopped raisins (or whatever you are using).
person pinching dough with raisins
  1. Roll it onto itself and pinch the ends to seal tightly.
person rolling dough with raisins
  1. Roll it out gently by starting in the middle and toward the edges until it is 12 inches long.

If, at any point, it becomes difficult to roll, let it sit for a few minutes and roll it again. And keep in mind that this is not going to be perfect, some raisins will bulge and that is perfectly fine.

A Few final tips for the best Challah bread recipe:

  • Still feeling intimidated? Remember one thing: this is a very forgiving dough. You see it, the strands for my bread and the braiding are not perfect. I shot the photos and filmed the video on a hot August day when the humidity was very high. However, even with not so perfect strands and braiding, my Challah turned out beautifully. So please know that even if it doesn’t look perfect, after it is risen and baked, it will look and taste great. 
  • The rising time: The exact rising time depends on the temperature of your kitchen. If you are making it on a hot summer day, your bread will rise much quicker than when you make it on a cold winter day. However, regardless of the time, for the best challah recipe, you want to make sure you let your bread rise fully. 
  • How would I know when it is ready to bake? You will know when it looks puffed up and at least, doubled in size. It should also slightly wobble as you are placing it in the oven.

FAQs:

What can you use as a substitute for challah bread?

The closest bread to challah is brioche as it is also made with eggs and oil so you can use substitute challah bread with brioche.

What does challah taste like?

Challah has a soft texture with a mild slightly sweet egg flavor with every bite.

How long do you bake Challah?

It takes about 35 to 40 minutes in a preheated 350 degrees F oven. To check doneness, you can thumb the bottom of the bread if it makes a hollow sound it is fully baked.

What to do with leftover Challah?

Use it to make Challah French Toast or use it in any of your bread pudding recipes.

How long does a freshly baked challah retain its flavor and texture?

As it is with most bread recipes, Challah tastes best on the day it is baked. However, if you store it in an airtight container after it is completely cooled to room temperature, it should retain its flavor and texture for up to 3 days.

How is brioche different than challah?

Brioche is usually made using melted butter whereas most challah recipes use vegetable oil.

What is another name for Challah bread?

Some other terms used for Challah are Shabbath Bread, Jewish Celebration Bread, Jewish Knotted Bread, Hollow Bread, Jewish Sweet Bread, and Rosh Hashanah Celebration Bread.

Other bread recipes you might also like:

If you loved this recipe for Challah bread, be sure to check out the bread recipes below to up your bread baking game:

If you try this somewhat Easy Challah bread recipe or any other bread recipes on Foolproof Living, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It helps others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them on Instagram using #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.

challah bread on a wire rack from front view
Print

Challah Bread Recipe

If you have always wanted to try your hand in making Challah at home, but never got around to it now is the time. Follow my easy to follow instructions and foolproof recipe to make the best ever Challah at home.
Course Bread
Cuisine Jewish
Prep Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 2 loaves
Calories 62kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 cups all-purpose flour (850 gr) Plus 1 cup to use during kneading
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt (17 gr)
  • 2 packets rapid rise yeast (14 gr) 1/2 oz.
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil Plus 1 tablespoon for greasing the bowl
  • 1 3/4 cup water (412 ml) – lukewarm to the touch – somewhere between 80-90 degrees F.
  • 3 large eggs at room temperature

For Egg Wash & Topping

  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 3 tablespoons black and white sesame seeds optional

Instructions

Prepare the dough:

  • Place 6 cups of flour, salt, and yeast into a large mixing bowl. Give it a quick whisk.
  • Add honey, oil, water, and 3 eggs into the bowl.
  • Using a spatula (or a wooden spoon), mix until they are incorporated.

Knead the dough:

  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured kitchen counter and knead for 10-15 minutes.
  • Grease a clean bowl with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place the dough seam side down into the greased bowl. Turn the dough a few times to make sure it is coated with oil.
  • Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warmer part of your house for one and a half hours until it doubles in size.
  • Punch down the dough to get all the air bubbles out. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for 45-minutes to an hour.

Prepare the strands (for braiding):

  • Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. I used a kitchen scale to weigh the dough and then to cut it into equal pieces. However, you can also eyeball it.
  • Roll each piece into a small ball and set them aside. Cover with a towel to make sure they won't dry out while you are working on the braiding.
  • To roll, take each piece, gently push it into a small rectangular (using the heel of your palm) and roll it out by starting in the middle and toward the edges. Gently pinch the seam and continue to roll out. If at any point it becomes difficult to roll out just let it rest for 5 minutes and roll it again. In the end, we want our strands to be around 12 to 13 inches long.

To Six Braid:

  • Lay the strands lengthwise on the counter, pinch them together at the top.
  • Start from the strand that is on the very left and bring over to the very right.
  • Then take the one next to it and bring it to the very left.
  • Next, bring the one that is at the very right in between the four strands that are at the bottom.
  • Move the second one from the left to the very right and then bring the on the very left into the between the strands at the bottom.
  • Continue with repeating the same steps until you are no longer able to move strands.
  • When you reach the end, bring them in, tie together underneath and pinch to make sure that they won’t come undone.
  • Transfer the braided Challah onto a parchement lined baking sheet.
  • Repeat the same process for the second set of strands (for the second Challah loaf)

Egg Wash & Rise & Toppings

  • Mix an egg with a tablespoon of water to make egg wash.
  • Brush each loaf with the egg wash and let it rise in the warmer part of your house for an hour.

To Bake Challah

  • Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Right before baking, brush it with the egg wash one last time and sprinkle it with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top turns to golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 30-45 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve.

Video

Notes

  • Challah with raisins: If you’d like to make Challah with raisin, incorporate raisins into the strands as you roll them. Please check out the photos in the blog post for more information. I would start by 1 cup chopped raisins (2-3 tablespoons for each strand) and use more if needed.
  • To use granulated sugar instead of honey: Use 5 tablespoons of sugar instead of honey and increase the amount of oil to 1/2 cup. The rest of the ingredients and the process is the same.
  • To store leftovers: Place leftover bread in an airtight container. It should be fresh for up to two days.
  • To freeze Challah: Bring your braided loaf to room temperature on a wire rack. You can freeze Challah as a whole loaf or slice before freezing. Place in a freezer bag, get the air out as much as possible and store in the freezer for up to a month.

Nutrition

Calories: 62kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 363mg | Potassium: 18mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 48IU | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg

Recipe adapted (and scaled down) from Leah Cooks Kosher’s Challah recipe with changes to her recipe.

This recipe was originally published in August 2014. It has been updated with new photos, information and minor changes to the originally published recipe in September 2021.

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Paleo Zucchini Bread with Almond Flour https://foolproofliving.com/paleo-zucchini-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/paleo-zucchini-bread/#comments Sat, 10 Jul 2021 07:55:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=33982 Over the years of writing this blog, I have already shared the recipes for my favorite Classic Zucchini Bread and…]]>

Over the years of writing this blog, I have already shared the recipes for my favorite Classic Zucchini Bread and Vegan Zucchini Bread recipes on this blog. This time, I wanted to put my current favorite baking flour, almond flour, to good use to create a recipe for a gluten-free, grain-free, low-carb, naturally-sweetened (refined sugar-free), and paleo version of zucchini bread.

I also wanted to add this recipe along with my Almond Flour Zucchini Muffins recipe into my ever-growing library of Almond Flour recipes.

A sliced paleo zucchini bread with almond flour from the front view

After taking some inspiration from my other paleo quick bread recipes like Almond Flour Banana Bread, Paleo Apple Cake, and Paleo Carrot Cake, this almond flour zucchini bread recipe came to be. Moist, tender, and full of healthy ingredients, I prefer it much more to standard zucchini bread. Plus, it is a great way to use extra zucchini you have on hand if you are growing them in your backyard.

Ingredients

This flourless zucchini bread recipe is made with farm-fresh zucchini and a handful of pantry ingredients broken up into dry and wet categories.

For the dry ingredients, gather together almond flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon.

For the wet ingredients, you will need eggs, grapeseed (or coconut) oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract.

Optional add-ins include walnuts and chocolate chips.

A few helpful tips for ingredients:

  • Zucchini. Select zucchini that are firm and heavy for their size, with green, glossy skin and no blemishes. To ensure success with this recipe, once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much water as possible.

PRO TIP: The number of zucchini you need depends on the size. As with all vegetable and fruit quick breads, I recommend using a digital kitchen scale for the grated zucchini (dry measuring cups are the second best option). For the recipe, you need about 1 ½ cup of (or 255 grams) of shredded and squeezed zucchini.

  • Almond Flour. I prefer to use almond flour made at home, but on those days when I am short on time, Blue Diamond Almond flour (affiliate link) is my go-to brand of choice. Almond flour (made blanched almonds) and almond meal (almonds with their skin) can be used interchangeably.
  • Chocolate Chips. Chocolate chips are a completely optional garnish but highly recommended. My favorite brand is Enjoy Life Semi Sweet Morsels (affiliate link). They contain two ingredients – unsweetened chocolate and cane sugar. For paleo (and keto) approved chocolate chips, Lily’s (affiliate link) are a great option and come in a variety of cocoa percentages.

How to make?

All it takes is two bowls, a loaf pan and a few easy steps to make this recipe for grain free, paleo, and gluten free paleo zucchini bread. Simply:

Step by step photos of how to get the liquid out of zucchini
  1. Prep and shred the zucchini. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Use the large holes of a box grater to grate the zucchini.
  2. Squeeze the zucchini to remove the excess moisture. Place the shredded zucchini onto the center of a clean kitchen towel, collect it from the edges and wring out as much liquid as possible over a large bowl or the kitchen sink.

Dry ingredients from the top view
person mixing dry ingredients in a bowl
  1. Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.
wet ingredients from top view
A woman is whisking the wet ingredients
  1. Whisk the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, coconut sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, silky and emulsified.
The rest of the ingredients for almond flour zucchini bread with no banana
A woman is mixing the bread batter
  1. Make the zucchini batter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the zucchini and walnuts.

QUICK TIP: As you fold the batter it will feel somewhat thick. That is normal. As a matter of fact, this is something that we want because zucchini will release more of its juices as it bakes in the oven, which in turn will yield a perfectly moist loaf rather than a soggy one.

paleo chocolate zucchini bread in a loaf pan being held by a woman
  1. Bake! Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with chocolate chips (if using), gently pressing into the surface. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool and slice. Allow to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then remove the almond zucchini bread from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

How To Store?

Once cooled completely, this low carb zucchini bread can be stored wrapped in parchment paper or in an airtight container on the kitchen counter for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

I would not recommend wrapping the loaf in plastic wrap as it will trap too much moisture and make the bread soggy (almond flour contains an extra dose of fat and moisture as compared to regular wheat flour).

A sliced paleo chocolate almond flour zucchini bread from the top view

How to freeze and thaw?

This zucchini bread freezes beautifully, too.

To store properly in the freezer, cool completely, slice into eight thick pieces and follow one of two methods:

  1. Place into a large plastic freezer storage bag with small squares of parchment paper between each slice (this facilitates easy removal of each slice) and seal tight.
  2. Wrap each piece individually with pre-cut parchment paper, then tightly in plastic wrap.

Label, date, and freeze for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, there is no need to thaw before defrosting. Simply leave out on your kitchen counter to bring to room temperature or pop a slice in your toaster until warmed through.

Add Ins & Substitutions

You can easily switch things up by:

  • Use different spices: Swap ground cinnamon with cardamom and/or ginger
  • Add chocolate into the batter: If you like your zucchini bread more chocolate-y, add 1/4 cup chocolate chips into the batter and then some more on top in the end.
  • Use different nuts: Use sliced almonds or pistachios instead of walnuts.
  • Don’t care for nuts or chocolate? No problem. Simply omit using them.

FAQs

How to transform it into keto zucchini bread?

The foundation of this zucchini bread recipe is Gluten-Free, Low-Carb and Paleo, but to turn it into a keto-friendly quick bread, simply replace the coconut sugar with an equal amount (1:1) of monk fruit sweetener (affiliate link) and use a keto-approved brand of chocolate chips such as Lily’s (sweetened with erythritol and stevia). If you are new to using keto sweeteners like I am, you can find this article on monk fruit sweeteners helpful.

Can I use the same batter to make paleo zucchini almond muffins?

You can transform the zucchini loaf cake into individual almond flour zucchini muffins. Simply, scoop the batter into a 12-cup muffin tin lined with parchment paper cupcake liners. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center springs back to the touch.

Other Zucchini Recipes You Might Like:

If you enjoyed this paleo zucchini bread recipe you might also like these zucchini season favorites.

A sliced almond flour paleo zucchini bread from the front view
Print

Paleo Zucchini Bread with Almond Flour (No Banana)

Paleo Zucchini Bread with almond flour that is also gluten free, dairy-free, and with a minor adjustment keto friendly as well. It is a deliciously moist and flavorful quick bread recipe that is topped with chocolate chips.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 369kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini (255gr) ~ 2 medium zucchini

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups almond flour 240 gr
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • ¼ cup grapeseed or coconut oil melted and cooled
  • ½ cup coconut sugar (66gr)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add Ins:

  • ½ cup walnuts chopped
  • ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips as a garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and line a 8X4 or 9X5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
  • Shred zucchini using the large section of a box grater. Place it in the middle of a kitchen cloth, collect it from the edges, and squeeze as much liquid as possible. Set it aside.
  • Whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
  • Whisk together eggs, oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and mix until combined.
  • Fold in the shredded zucchini and walnuts.
  • Transfer the batter into the loaf pan.
  • Sprinkle it with chocolate chips, if using.
  • Bake 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes on the counter. Remove the zucchini loaf from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack or on the counter.
  • Slice and serve.

Video

Notes

  • To turn this into Paleo Zucchini Muffins: Scoop the batter into a 12-cup muffin tin lined with parchment paper cupcake liners. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center springs back to the touch.
  • Best way to store: Once cooled completely, this low carb zucchini bread can be stored wrapped in parchment paper or in an airtight container on the kitchen counter for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Best way to freeze: Let it cool completely. Wrap each piece individually with pre-cut parchment paper, then tightly in plastic wrap. Label, date and freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 369kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 332mg | Potassium: 142mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 114IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2mg
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Turkish Simit Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/simit/ https://foolproofliving.com/simit/#comments Sat, 20 Mar 2021 06:42:00 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=2967 If you have ever visited Turkey or are a fan of Turkish food, you know our version of a bagel,…]]>

If you have ever visited Turkey or are a fan of Turkish food, you know our version of a bagel, Turkish Simit bread. It is one of those iconic Turkish recipes, right up there with Turkish Coffee, Borek, and Turkish Bulgur Pilaf.

Usually served with feta cheese, olives, and Turkish tea or ayran (aka Turkish Yogurt Drink), simit has been a breakfast staple in every Turkish household for centuries. Sadly, for those of us living outside of Turkey, it is not easy to find (unless you are living in a town with a great Turkish restaurant.) The good news is that making simit at home is easy with my foolproof method.

Turkish Simit in a large bowl from the front.

What Is Simit?

Simit also referred to as gevrek or gjevrek, is a sesame-bathed, circular Turkish bread. It is similar to an American bagel in how it looks but crustier on the outside and softer on the inside.

Because it is mainly served for breakfast, I’ve heard some people in the US refer to it as “Turkish Bagel” or “Turkish Pretzel.”

Traditionally sold by street vendors on the streets of Turkey for no more than $0.50, it is usually made by twisting simit dough and dipping it in molasses and toasted sesame seeds before baking it in the oven.

Simit Ingredients:

To make it easier, I will divide the Turkish Sesame Bread ingredients into three parts.

Ingredients needed to activate the yeast.

The Yeast & Milk Mixture:

  • Water at 110 Fahrenheit degrees (43 Celsius degrees)
  • 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream) at room temperature: You can use milk and heavy cream interchangeably in this recipe. The version of Simit bagel made with heavy cream is richer due to the higher fat content of heavy cream. Still, if you can’t find it, you can substitute it with whole milk. I would not recommend substituting plant-based milk in this recipe.
  • 2 tablespoons or 3 (1/4 oz.) packets of active dry yeast (I used Fleischmann’s)
  • Granulated sugar
Ingredients for simit dough recipe.

The dough of the ingredients:

  • All-purpose flour: I tested this recipe with several all-purpose flour brands, and the results were similar. I personally like King Arthur Flour as it has a higher amount of protein which is ideal for making bread. The recipe below starts with 5 cups, but you will need at least 1 to 1 ½ cups or more flour to use on the surface as you are kneading the simit dough.
  • Large egg
  • Kosher salt
  • Vegetable oil (avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil would all work.)
Ingredients to dip the raw dough.

The Sesame Coating

  • Molasses (I used Grandma’s Molasses – affiliate link): Alternatively, you can also use pomegranate or grape molasses (this Turkish Molasses is my favorite) if you can get your hands on them, which is traditionally used in Turkey. Molasses coating helps sesame seeds stick to the dough and give the overall bread slight sweetness that its known for.
  • White sesame seeds

How To Make Simit?

This Simit bread recipe below makes ten sesame breads. Even though the steps look like a lot, the process of making simit is quite simple.

A person filling a measuring cup with the ingredients to activate the yeast.
  1. Activate the yeast: Place water, milk, sugar, and active dry yeast into a measuring cup. Give it a quick whisk, cover it with stretch film, and let it sit on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes or until bubbles form on top.
A person showing how to make the simit Turkish recipe in a collage of photos.
  1. Make the simit dough: Place 5 cups (700 grams) of all-purpose flour, kosher salt, oil, egg, and now-risen yeast-milk mixture in a large mixing bowl. Start mixing the sesame Turkish bread dough by hand until it comes together. Lightly dust the counter with flour and dump the dough onto the surface. Knead by hand to form a smooth and elastic dough until the dough is not sticking to your fingers. This may take around 15 to 17 minutes. Alternatively, you can do this in a stand mixer. I included the instructions for that in the recipe card below.
Showing the simit dough before and after it is risen.
  1. Let the simit dough rise: Lightly wet a kitchen towel with hot tap water and place it over the dough. Let it sit on the kitchen counter until it doubles in size, 30-45 minutes.
Person toasting sesame seeds in a skillet top view.
  1. Toast sesame seeds: While the dough is rising, place sesame seeds in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, and toast until they turn golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Transfer to a large shallow plate to cool. 
Person showing how to roll the dough into a cylinder.
  1. Turn the dough into a cylinder: Fold the dough from each end onto itself towards the middle, gently pinch, and roll into a cylinder of roughly 20-inches (51 cm.)
Person dividing the  Turkish bagel dough into small pieces and placing on a sheet.
  1. Divide the now-risen dough: Using a sharp knife or a pastry scraper, divide the dough into 10 equal pieces and transfer onto a sheet pan (lined with parchment paper and sprinkled with flour.) Cover it with a clean kitchen towel (to prevent them from drying as you work on each piece.) 
  2. Preheat the oven to 400 F degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Person showing how to shape and twist Turkish bread recipe.
  1. Shape each simit dough: Roll each dough ball into a roughly 40-inch (102 cm) long strand. Fold the string onto itself using your finger to hold it in the middle. Twist the dough in the opposite direction to form a spiral rope. Roll it into a 5-inch diameter ring and gently pinch the end to seal. 
Shaped dough on a sheet pan.
  1. Let them rest: Transfer the now-shaped dough onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat the same process for the rest of the dough balls. Let them rest until they rise for 30 minutes. How much they rise depends on the temperature of your kitchen. (You can learn more about this in the tips section below)
Person dipping Turkish Simit bagel into molasses and sesame seeds.
  1. Dip simit into molasses and sesame seeds: Mix together molasses with water in a large shallow plate. Bring in the sesame seeds. First, dip simit into the molasses mixture (on both sides) and then into the sesame seeds making sure that all sides are fully covered with sesame seeds. Transfer the sesame-seeded bread onto a baking sheet and repeat the same process for the rest of the limit. Do not skip this part as sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and crunch texture to simit, which makes this bread so special.
Baked Turkish simit bread on a sheet pan.
  1. Bake: Bake both sheets in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown, making sure to rotate them from top to bottom halfway through the baking process. Let them cool for 5 minutes and serve while still warm.

What To Serve with Turkish Simit Bread?

Traditionally, we serve simit bread for breakfast with feta cheese, olives, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, Turkish eggs and Turkish tea or Ayran. With that being said, you can serve it with any cheese and even with your favorite jams or preserves.

Showing ways to serve Turkish simit.

Alternatively, you can make a simit sandwich by slicing it horizontally in half and place cheese, sliced tomatoes, and cucumbers in the middle. You can also do a simit toast by toasting each slice in a toaster.

Simit sandwich on a plate layered with feta cheese and tomatoes.

How To Make Ahead, Store, and Freeze?

The best part of this Turkish bread recipe is that it can be made ahead. So, you can easily make a batch, eat some right away, and freeze the rest for later.

  • Make Ahead: Whenever I am serving simit for breakfast, I make the dough a day before (up to 12 hours before), store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. To do so, make the recipe until the step right before dipping the braided dough into sesame seeds. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and store them in the fridge. In the morning, remove them from the fridge, let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and follow the recipe as written.
  • To store leftovers: Bring simit to room temperature, place in a plastic bag, remove the air out as much as you can, and store at room temperature. It should be fresh for up to 2 days. You can toast it for a few minutes before serving.
  • To freeze: Repeat the same process but place in the freezer instead. When ready to serve, let it thaw for 10 minutes on the counter, and then heat it in a preheated 300 F degree oven for 10-12 minutes.

Expert Tips:

  • The shape doesn’t matter:  If this is your first time trying your hand in making this Turkish simit recipe and if your simit strands don’t look like the ones in the pictures, do not worry. I promise that they will look better as they rise, and regardless of their appearance, they will taste great after they are baked. You will get the hang of it after you make it a few times.
  • The temperature of the water & milk: For the active dry yeast to get activated, your water must be around 110 F degrees (43 Celsius), and your milk (or heavy cream) is at room temperature. If they are colder or warmer, the yeast might not get activated, and as a result, your simit Turkish bread might fall flat.
  • The temperature of your kitchen: As it is with any bread recipe (like I explained in my Challah bread recipe), the temperature of your kitchen (or the time of the year) will affect how much your dough rises. If you are making simit on a hot summer day, it will likely double in size. However, I have made this recipe several times all throughout the year, and it consistently delivered great results.
  • The temperature of your oven: Most Turkish simit recipes start with a 400 F degree oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, raise the temperature to 425 to 450 F degrees and then bake a little longer (usually 5-7 minutes). I tested this recipe several times and did not think it was necessary to bake it in two stages. However, I recommend keeping an eye on it after the 18th-minute mark.
  • Sesame seeds cook faster than the simit dough: Be careful when you open the oven door at the end of the baking process as some smoke might come out due to sesame seeds cooking faster than the limit. 
  • Istanbul Simit vs. Street Simit: If you ever visit Turkey, you will see that the simit sold on the street does not have this many sesame seeds because sesame seeds are costly. My mom, who grew up in Istanbul, always made simit with a lot of sesame seeds, similar to how I did here. If you are not a fan, you can adjust the amount and use less.

FAQs:

What is simit made of?

This Turkish sesame bread is made by mixing flour, yeast, milk (or heavy cream), sesame seeds and molasses.

How is Turkish simit different from American Bagel?

Compared to American bagels, the Turkish simit is lighter and crustier. Also, there is no boiling done during the process of making simit. Instead, we dip simit dough in a water-molasses mixture and coat it in sesame seeds before baking.

What does simit taste like?

It tastes like a lightly sweetened, savory crusty bread with a very pronounced sesame flavor.

Can I make this recipe without molasses?

While it is not traditional, you can use honey instead of molasses. However, please be aware that the taste might be slightly different. To do so, use a mixture of 5-6 tablespoons of honey and 4 tablespoons of water instead.

Can I use a stand mixer (like KitchenAid) instead of kneading the simit dough by hand?

Yes, you can, and I recommend using the dough hook to knead. Also, you might have to adjust the amount of flour by adding more until the dough no longer sticks to the bowl.

How many calories per serving?

Each serving of this recipe is 370 calories.

Other bread recipes you might also like

Other Turkish recipes you might like

Simit Turkish bread on a baking sheet from the top view.
Print

Turkish Simit Recipe (Turkish Bagel)

Learn how to make Turkish simit bread recipe using my foolproof method. Traditionally served for breakfast, our version of bagel is the most popular street food in Turkey. The good news is that you can now make it with these foolproof step by step instructions.
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine Turkish
Diet Halal
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 10 simits
Calories 370kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water at 110 F degrees (43 Celsius)
  • 1 cup whole milk at room temperature (or heavy cream)
  • 2 tablespoons active dry yeast Or 3 (1/4 oz.) packets
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (Canola, avocado, and grapeseed oil would all work)
  • 5 cups all purpose flour (25 oz.) plus more for when kneading the dough and for the surface
  • 3 cups sesame seeds (12 oz.)
  • 7 tablespoons molasses diluted with 5 tablespoons of water

Instructions

  • Activate the yeast: Place water, milk, sugar, and active dry yeast into a measuring cup. Give it a quick whisk, cover it with stretch film, and let it sit on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes or until bubbles form on top.
  • Make the dough: Place 5 cups (700 grams) of all-purpose flour, kosher salt, oil, egg, and now-risen yeast-milk mixture in a large mixing bowl. Start mixing by hand until it comes together. Lightly dust the counter with flour and transfer the dough onto the surface. Knead by hand to form a smooth and elastic dough until the dough is not sticking to your fingers. This may take around 15 -17 minutes.
  • Let the simit dough rise: Lightly wet a kitchen towel with hot tap water and place it over the dough. Let it sit on the kitchen counter until it doubles in size, 30-45 minutes.
  • Toast the sesame seeds: While the dough is rising, place sesame seeds in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, and toast until they turn golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Transfer into a large shallow plate to cool.
  • Roll The Dough into a Cylinder: Fold the dough from each end onto itself towards the middle, gently pinch, and roll into a cylinder of roughly 20-inches (51 cm.)
  • Divide: Using a sharp knife or a pastry scraper, divide the dough into 10 equal pieces, transfer onto a sheet pan (lined with parchment paper), and cover it with a clean kitchen towel (to prevent them from drying as you work on each piece)
  • Preheat the oven to 400 F degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Shape the dough and let it rest: Roll each dough ball into a roughly 40-inch (102 cm) long strand. Fold the string onto itself using your finger to hold it in the middle. Twist the dough in the opposite direction to form a spiral rope. Roll it into a 5-inch diameter ring and gently pinch the end to seal.
  • Let it rise: Transfer the now-shaped simits onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat the same process for the rest of the dough balls. Let them rest until they rise for 30 minutes. How much they rise depends on the temperature of your kitchen.
  • Dip: Mix together molasses with water in a large shallow plate. Bring in the sesame seeds. First, dip simit into the molasses mixture (on both sides) and then into the sesame seeds making sure that all sides are fully covered with sesame seeds. Transfer onto a baking sheet and repeat the same process for the rest of the limit.
  • Bake in the oven: Bake both sheets in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown making sure to rotate them from top to bottom halfway through the baking process. Let them cool for 5 minutes and serve while still warm.

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes 10 of these sesame breads. The nutritional information below is per simit.
  • Make Ahead Instructions: Whenever I am serving simit for breakfast, I make the dough a day before (up to 12 hours before), store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. To do so, make the recipe until the step right before dipping the braided dough into sesame seeds (until step 10.) Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and store them in the fridge. In the morning, remove them from the fridge, let them rest on the counter, and come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and follow the recipe as written.
  • To store leftovers: Bring simit to room temperature, place in a plastic bag, remove the air out as much as you can, and store at room temperature. It should be fresh for up to 2 days. You can toast it for a few minutes before serving.
  • To freeze: Repeat the same process but place in the freezer instead. When ready to serve, let it thaw for 10 minutes on the counter, and then heat it in a preheated 300 F degree oven for 10-12 minutes.
  • The shape doesn’t matter:  If this is your first time trying your hand at making this Turkish simit recipe, and if your simit strands don’t look like the ones in the pictures, do not worry. I promise that they will look better as they rise, and regardless of their appearance, they will taste great after they are baked. You will get the hang of it after you make it a few times.
  • The temperature of the water & milk: For the active dry yeast to get activated, your water must be around 110 F degrees (43 Celsius), and your milk (or heavy cream) is at room temperature. If they are colder or warmer, the yeast might not get activated, and as a result, your simit Turkish bread might fall flat.
  • Using a standing mixer: The most time-consuming part of this recipe is kneading the dough by hand. If you have a standing mixer, you can knead the dough using the dough hook. To do so, in step 2, instead of mixing everything in a bowl, mix them in the bowl of your mixer. Mix until everything comes together (no more than 7-8 minutes), and it turns into a soft bowl, stopping and scraping the bottom of the bowl a few times. Towards the end, if it is too sticky, you can add a small amount of flour to help it come together.

Nutrition

Calories: 370kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 494mg | Potassium: 462mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 67IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 499mg | Iron: 7mg

This Turkish Simit recipe post was originally published in April 2014. It has been updated with new photos and minor changes to the originally published recipe in January 2024.

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Sweet Potato Biscuits https://foolproofliving.com/sweet-potato-biscuits/ https://foolproofliving.com/sweet-potato-biscuits/#comments Fri, 06 Dec 2019 14:46:14 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=26623 Ingredients You’ll Need You only need six simple ingredients to make these flaky sweet potato biscuits. The exact measurements are…]]>
Aysegul Sanford from the front view.

There is a small bakery in our Atlanta neighborhood that makes the kind of biscuits people talk about. The real Southern kind. My husband and I often walk there on Sunday mornings and treat ourselves to a warm breakfast.

The owner, a true Southern belle, changes the menu with the seasons. As soon as the leaves start turning, sweet potato biscuits make their appearance. They are so popular that locals wait for them, and they usually sell out before ten in the morning. With a following like that, you would think she would make more, but she never does.

One weekend when we did not make it there on time, I came home a little disappointed and decided to try making my own version. After a few trials, I ended up with something very close to hers. 

Here is why I love this recipe:

  • The mashed sweet potato adds a gentle sweetness that feels slightly sweet but still light and fluffy.
  • You can shape and freeze the dough, so warm biscuits are always within reach, whether for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need six simple ingredients to make these flaky sweet potato biscuits. The exact measurements are in the recipe card below, but here are some important notes from my testing (plus a few substitution ideas):

Ingredients for the recipe from the top view.

Flour: I use standard all-purpose flour because it gives these biscuits the right balance of structure and tenderness. If you prefer a slightly lighter texture, you can swap in ½ cup of pastry flour for part of the all-purpose flour.

Pro tip: For the most accurate measurement, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with the flat edge of a knife, as scooping directly from the bag compacts the flour and can lead to dense, dry biscuits.

Sweet potato: You’ll need 1 cup of cooled mashed sweet potato (also called sweet potato puree), which is usually from 1 large potato or 2 medium ones. For the best texture, I prefer baking my sweet potato rather than boiling it, as boiling adds more moisture and can make the dough stickier and harder to work with. 

Pro tip: For the most accurate results, measure your sweet potato by weight if you can; you want about 235-240 grams.

Baking powder: While 4 teaspoons might look like a lot, I promise it’s exactly what these biscuits need to rise and stay airy. 

Make sure your baking powder is fresh; anything older than 6 months won’t give the same lift. A good way to test freshness is to drop ½ tsp into warm water; if it fizzes immediately, it should still be fresh.

Butter: I used European-style unsalted butter, which has a higher fat content and creates extra flakiness, but regular unsalted butter works as well. Make sure that it is cold, as using cold butter is what gives you those beautiful visible layers. Also, do yourself a favor and cut it into smaller pieces to make mixing easier.

Buttermilk: This is what adds moisture and helps the dough come together. Using buttermilk is essential because its acidity activates the baking powder, making the biscuits rise higher.

If you don’t have any on hand, you can make a quick substitute:

  • Mix together 1 cup whole milk and 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice.
  • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • This substitute won’t be as rich as real buttermilk, but it works well in a pinch and produces a very similar biscuit.

Variations 

While I used six simple ingredients, you can easily adjust the flavors depending on how you plan to serve these buttermilk sweet potato biscuits. Here are a few variations you can try:

  • Sweet version: If you want the biscuits to lean more toward dessert, add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. These additions will promote the sweetness in the sweet potato, giving it a dessert-like taste.
  • Savory version: When I make these sweet potato biscuits for Thanksgiving, I usually mix in 1-2 teaspoons of very finely chopped fresh thyme, black pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika. It pairs wonderfully with turkey and most holiday vegetable sides.

How to Cook Sweet Potatoes for Biscuits

Before you start mixing the dough, you’ll need 1 cup of cooled mashed sweet potato. You can cook your sweet potato several different ways, and each method gives slightly different results. 

Here’s what I found while testing:

Baked: Roasting your sweet potatoes in the oven yields the best flavor and adds the least excess liquid, which is ideal for this recipe. Because there’s little moisture, the dough comes together easily and stays flaky when it’s baked. Baking sweet potatoes also caramelizes them slightly and enhances their sweetness.

Microwaved: If you’re short on time, microwaving is the quickest way to soften a sweet potato. Simply pierce it several times with a fork, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and cook for 5-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until completely tender. Though keep in mind that there is a direct correlation between the size of the potato and the cook time.

Safety Tip: If you choose this method, keep a close eye on it. I usually stop the microwave every minute or so instead of running it for the whole time. I also like to rotate the sweet potato a few times to ensure even cooking.

Boiled: While you technically can use boiled sweet potatoes, I do not recommend it, as the sweet potato mash will be softer and have a little more moisture. 

Still, if you have to use boiled sweet potatoes, I recommend adding 1-2 tablespoons of flour while folding the dough until it feels workable and no longer sticky.

Once your sweet potato is cooked, peel it and mash it until completely smooth. I usually use a fork or a potato masher; just make sure there are no lumps.

Pro Tip: Regardless of the cooking method, be sure to let the mashed sweet potato cool completely before adding it to the dough. A warm, sweet potato mash will soften the butter, and if it melts too early, you will lose those beautiful flaky layers that make it magical.

How to Make Sweet Potato Biscuits (Step by Step)

Once you have your ingredients ready, this sweet potato biscuits recipe comes together quickly. Here’s how I make it:

Step 1 – Preheat the oven: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

I intentionally went with a slightly lower oven temperature (compared to most recipes, which bake at 400°F to 425°F) because a lower temperature prevents over-browning, as sweet potatoes cook and brown faster.

Step 2 – Mix the dry ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. 

Step 3 – Cut in the cold butter: Add the cold, cubed butter into the dry flour mixture and work it in with a pastry cutter or the back of a fork until the pieces are the size of peas.

Pro Tip: Cold butter is essential for creating flaky layers. You want the little pieces of butter to stay firm until they get to the oven. If the butter warms up too early, it blends into the flour rather than staying in pieces, and the biscuits end up denser than flaky. As you mix, if it feels like it is softening too much, feel free to put it in the fridge for a couple of minutes.

Step 4 – Add the sweet potato and buttermilk: Gently mix in the mashed sweet potato and buttermilk with a wooden spoon.

A word on the amount of liquid in the dough: As I was testing this recipe, I initially thought the dough looked a bit dry and considered adding more liquid at this stage. However, as I continued mixing, I realized it did not need any more liquid. If that happens to you, resist the urge to add more in and just trust the process.

Steps showing the folding of the dough.

Step 5 – Fold the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle. Fold it in half, rotate, and repeat this 2-3 times. This step is crucial because each fold adds more layers of butter and dough, which bake into tall, flaky biscuits.

Images showing the shaping of the dough to make sweet potato biscuits.

Step 6 – Shape and cut the biscuits: Form the dough into a rectangle about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Use a round biscuit cutter (I use a 2-inch cutter) and press straight down. A good way to prevent the biscuit cutter from sticking to the dough is to dip it in flour before using it. Also, as you cut the dough, you’ll be left with scraps; gather them and repeat the process until you run out.

Step 7 – Chill the dough: Transfer the sweet potato biscuits to the prepared sheet pan, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

While it is optional, I  highly recommend placing the shaped biscuits into the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before baking. Doing so will help firm the butter and give you a better rise.

Step 8 – Bake: Transfer the sheet pan to the oven and bake the biscuits for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown and the sides look set. When done, resist the urge to dive in right away, as letting them cool for 5 minutes or so helps them set.

How to Make Ahead, Store, and Freeze These Biscuits

To make ahead: If you’re planning for a holiday meal or simply want to get a head start, you can prepare the biscuits a day in advance.

Simply shape and cut the biscuits as usual, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. 

Storing leftovers: I’ll be honest, these biscuits taste best when they are freshly baked. However, you can keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: I highly recommend freezing them before baking for the best texture and that dreamy, thick, flaky rise. Simply place the cut biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal it tightly. They keep well for up to 3 months and can be baked straight from frozen. Just add 2-3 extra minutes to the bake time.

You can technically freeze the already-baked biscuits using this method, but be aware that they will likely not have the flaky texture (and layers) when thawed and reheated.

Reheating: For the best texture, I recommend re-heating the biscuits in the oven. Place them in a 325 °F (163 °C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This brings back their soft centers and crisp edges without drying them out.

Troubleshooting Sweet Potato Biscuits

Biscuits look gummy in the center? This may happen when the sweet potato mash is too wet, especially if it was boiled, or when the biscuits are slightly underbaked. Or, if your oven is not hot enough. So, be sure to drain the extra liquid well and ensure that your oven is properly heated.

Dough feel too dry? If you feel like your dough is hard to shape or not holding together, this usually means the flour absorbed a bit more moisture than expected. Add 1-2 teaspoons of buttermilk and gently work it in until the dough comes together.

Dough feel too sticky? Add a little flour to your hands and counter to work the dough more easily. 

Biscuits not rising? This typically means the butter warmed up too much or the dough was overworked. Also, double-check that your baking powder is fresh, as anything older than six months won’t give the lift you are looking for.

Expert Tips for Flaky Biscuits Every Time

Use cold ingredients: It is imperative that all of your ingredients are cold. Keep your butter, sweet potato mash, and buttermilk cold right up until the moment they are mixed in for the tender and flaky biscuits.

Roast your sweet potato ahead of time: For the best texture, I recommend roasting it a day in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. Using a cold sweet potato will help your dough stay firm and will prevent the butter from softening. It is also a great time saver, as the most time-consuming part of this recipe is cooking the sweet potato.

Be gentle with the dough: Mix just until the dough holds together; overmixing develops the gluten and can lead to not-so-flaky, rather dense biscuits.

Don’t toss your scraps: After cutting the first round, gather the scraps and gently press them back into a uniform layer. This will give you a few extra biscuits.

Buttery and flaky sweet potato biscuits are placed on a tray and photographed from the top view.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

In a pinch, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but it’s not my top recommendation. They usually contain more moisture, which can make the dough softer and a bit harder to work with. 
If you choose to use it, drain it thoroughly and try to remove as much moisture as possible. You may also need to add a tablespoon or two of flour (or more) as you fold the dough to help it reach the right consistency.

Can I make these without buttermilk?

I do not recommend skipping the buttermilk. If you don’t have any on hand, a homemade substitute made with milk and vinegar or lemon juice will work, but omitting it will prevent the baking powder from activating, which in turn will yield flat biscuits.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles very well. If you’re baking for a larger group or preparing them for a holiday meal, simply divide the dough between two baking sheets so the biscuits have enough space to rise properly.

Can I freeze the sweet potato biscuit dough?

Yes, for the best results, shape the biscuits first and freeze them on a baking sheet until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them until you’re ready to bake. You can bake them straight from frozen, just add two to three extra minutes to the baking time.

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Sweet potato biscuits on a plate from the front view.
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Sweet Potato Biscuits Recipe

Recipe for the best flaky and light sweet potato biscuits. Made with buttermilk these easy sweet potato flour biscuits are just as good as grandmas. They are made in one bowl and with only 6 ingredients. They can be baked right away or frozen to bake later. Serve them as a side dish with soups, stews or just by themselves with butter on the side.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 12 biscuits
Calories 154kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for the workspace
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato from 1 large sweet potato
  • ½ cup buttermilk cold

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C) degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a bowl. 
  • Add in the unsalted butter. Using the back of a fork or a dough cutter cut the butter into the flour until butter pieces resemble peas. 
  • Add in the mashed sweet potato. Pour in the buttermilk.
  • Give it a mix with a wooden spoon. (See note 1)
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead until the dough is fully mixed and slightly sticky.  
  • Shape it into a 1 to 1 ½ inch thick rectangular.
  • Cut rounds using a biscuit cutter (I used a 2-inch biscuit cutter).  Gather the remaining scraps and repeat until all the dough is used. 
  • Transfer the biscuits onto a parchment-lined sheet pan. (See note 2)
  • Bake for 15 minutes. When done, remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Yields: This recipe makes 12 sweet potato biscuits when using a 2-inch round cutter. The nutritional values are per biscuit.
  • Note 1: At this stage, it might feel like you need more liquid but resist the urge to add in more. Believe me, it will come together beautifully as you continue to mix.
  • Note 2:  If you have time, I highly recommend covering the biscuits with stretch film and letting them cool in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking for those flaky layers. 
  • Make ahead: You can make biscuits as written, place them in a parchment-lined sheet pan, cover tightly with stretch film, and keep them in the fridge a day before you are ready to bake/serve them. 
  • Storing leftovers: While these biscuits are best on the day that they are baked, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.  You can reheat them in a low-heat oven at 325 °F (163 °C) before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 258mg | Potassium: 147mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 4676IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 1mg
Old fashioned sweet potato biscuits are place in a casserole dish and photographed from the top view.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Biscuits

You can pair these biscuits with just about anything you’d normally serve with bread. I tend to save them for special occasions like Thanksgiving because they feel a little more special than a plain butter biscuit. Below are a few of my favorite pairings:

As a Thanksgiving side: These biscuits pair beautifully with Thanksgiving classics like Roasted Turkey, Cranberry Sauce, Wild Rice Stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, and Turkey Gravy.  

With soup and stew: It is no secret that biscuits and soup are such a classic pairing. You can serve them with a heartwarming Beef Barley Soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, or even Vegetable Beef Soup for a filling winter dinner.

With butter: Serve them warm with any of your favorite spreads. Warm butter is a classic pairing, but maple butter, honey butter, or whipped cinnamon butter make these biscuits feel extra cozy.

For sandwiches: These biscuits make great little sandwiches. If you have leftover turkey or ham, cut the biscuits in half, add some butter or mustard, and make mini leftover turkey sliders. You can also make breakfast sandwiches with a classic ham and egg combo. They’re simple, delicious, and always crowd-pleasing.

Other Homemade Biscuit Recipes You Might Like

  • My Whole Wheat Biscuits recipe is another staple in my weekly rotation. A great option for bread, it is just as flaky but offers a more earthy flavor profile thanks to whole wheat flour.
  • If you need a gluten-free option, then my Almond Flour Biscuits is the recipe I recommend. It is made with five simple ingredients, and they’re naturally low-carb, paleo, and keto-friendly.
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Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/easy-pumpkin-bread-recipe/ https://foolproofliving.com/easy-pumpkin-bread-recipe/#comments Tue, 05 Nov 2019 19:23:21 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=26265 Why Should You Make This Recipe? After a few times of testing and tweaking, today I come to you with…]]>

Why Should You Make This Recipe?

After a few times of testing and tweaking, today I come to you with what I’d like to call the best pumpkin bread recipe from scratch. Here are a few reasons why you will love this recipe too:

  • Made with every day ingredients: If you are someone who enjoys baking often you probably already have all the ingredients on hand. If not, a quick trip to your local grocery store should be sufficient.
  • All you need is two bowls and a whisk: No special equipment or prior baking knowdledge is needed. If you can read, you can make this easy pumpkin bread.
  • Packed heartwarming fall spices: Sweetened with coconut sugar and made with canned pumpkin puree (though you can easily swap it with fresh pumpkin puree), it is packed with a ton of pumpkin flavor along with delicious fall spices like pumpkin pie spice and ground cinnamon.
Image of a sliced loaf of easy pumpkin bread

Intrigued? Let’s break it all down and answer all your questions on making the most delicious easy homemade pumpkin bread recipe.

A simple pumpkin bread recipe sliced and photographed from the front view.

Ingredients

As in most quick bread recipes, this pumpkin loaf recipe has 2 sets of ingredients: Dry and Wet.

Dry Ingredients

Dry Ingredients for single loaf pumpkin loaf are photographed from the top view
  • Flour: I used a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat pastry flour. I love the addition of earthy flavors coming from the whole wheat pastry flour.
    If you don’t have whole wheat pastry flour, you can replace the ⅔ cup whole wheat pastry flour used in this recipe with ⅓ cup all-purpose flour and ⅓ cup whole wheat flour. 
  • Baking Powder: To make it lighter.
  • Baking Soda: To make it rise.
  • Kosher Salt: To enhance and bring out the sweet flavors.
  • Spices: I opted for ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice for ease and convenience. However, you can also make your own pumpkin spice mix by mixing together ¼ teaspoon of (each) ground ginger, clove, nutmeg, and allspice.
  • Nuts: I added a cup of walnuts and roasted pepitas (on top) at the very end, but any nuts (pecans, pumpkin seeds, etc.) would work here. 

Wet Ingredients

Wet ingredients for pumpkin quick bread photographed from the top view
  • Eggs: I used two eggs to make the batter nice and fluffy
  • Coconut Sugar: I used coconut sugar not only because it is a healthier choice (because it causes a slightly lower rise in blood sugar than granulated white sugar – more on this later!), but also because it provides a delicious brown-sugar like flavor in the overall recipe. If you don’t have coconut sugar, you can substitute it with the exact amount of light brown sugar.
  • Pumpkin Puree: I used a cup of canned pumpkin puree as I always keep a few cans in my pantry, but if you have homemade fresh pumpkin puree on hand feel free to use it. 
    If you are in need of a good homemade pumpkin bread recipe, check out my friend, Traci’s Homemade Pumpkin Puree.
  • Vermont Creamery’s Unsalted Butter: While you can use any oil you like (i.e. coconut oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, etc.), I opted for unsalted melted and cooled butter. I am a big fan of the luxurious creamy flavors of Vermont Creamery’s cultured butter. After trying this exact recipe with several types of oils, I decided that the version with butter was simply the best. 
  • Almond Milk: I used ¼ cup almond milk to thin the bread batter. However, any type of milk, coconut, oat, and even regular milk would all work here.
  • Vanilla Extract: I used pure vanilla extract to enhance all the flavors within the batter.

How to make this recipe from scratch

The process of making this healthy pumpkin bread recipe has 4 folds.

First, mix the dry ingredients in a small bowl.

Second, whisk together the eggs with coconut sugar in a large bowl. Add in the pumpkin puree, melted and cooled butter, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Give it a good whisk until fully incorporated.

healthy pumpkin bread recipe with canned pumpkin is photographed as it is being made.

Third, fold in the dry ingredients into the wet ones. I usually start with a whisk and continue with a spatula to avoid over mixing the batter.

Finally, stir in the walnuts and transfer the batter into a loaf pan. If preferred, sprinkle it with a handful of pepitas and walnuts as a garnish.

I used a full-size loaf pan (9X5), but this recipe also bakes beautifully in a smaller 8.5X4.5 loaf pan as well.

How to make pumpkin bread with fresh pureed pumpkin

As I mentioned earlier, you can use the exact amount (1 cup) of fresh pumpkin puree (which you can make by roasting and pureeing a whole pumpkin) instead of canned pumpkin puree in this recipe. The rest of the ingredients and the process would be the same.

In my testings, I was not able to recognize a big difference in taste between the version of pumpkin bread made with fresh pumpkin puree versus the one made with canned pumpkin.

Want to know more about fresh versus canned? This article, Fresh vs Canned Pumpkin, written by Handle the Heat, is a really interesting and helpful article on the subject.

Easy pumpkin bread recipe is being made by a woman. She is photographed as she is mixing the batter from the top view.
Pumpkin Spice bread loaf is photographed in loaf pan before it is baked

How long to cook/bake?

This pumpkin quick bread recipe bakes in a 350-degree oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

How to make it moist?

The thing about this simple pumpkin loaf cake is that it is deliciously moist making you want a little more after each bite.

Though to get a better understanding of how to ensure that my pumpkin quick bread turns out moist every time, I asked the question to Jenifer. Being the amazing pastry chef that she is she provided me with the following explanation:

The pumpkin bread stays moist with the right balance of liquid to dry ingredients, fat, and leavening. Too much liquid to dry, the pumpkin bread will be soggy. Too much fat or leavening will cause the pumpkin bread to be coarse and crumbly.

How to store & freeze

  • Storage: You can keep this pumpkin spice bread at room temperature for up to two days. To do so, remove the pumpkin bread from the loaf pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Then, wrap it in a stretch film and place it in an airtight container (or in a plastic Ziploc bag) and seal closed.
    Alternatively, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be sure to wrap it well and place it in an airtight container.
Healthy pumpkin bread recipe sliced and photographed from the top view from a close up distance
  • To Freeze: You can certainly freeze this pumpkin walnut bread. It will retain its freshness for up to three months in the freezer. To do so, wrap it tightly with stretch film, place it in a plastic freezer bag, and seal tightly. I personally like to slice it before freezing. That way I can enjoy a few slices here and there without having to thaw the whole loaf.

Variations:

I usually use this recipe as a base and change it up with different ingredients. Below are a few of my favorite variations:

  • Pumpkin Raisin Bread: Fold in ½ cup raisins in the batter right at the same time you add in the walnuts.
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread: Fold in ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips (I like mine bittersweet) at the last minute.
  • Dairy-Free Pumpkin Bread: While I prefer my pumpkin bread recipe with butter, you can use the same amount of coconut (melted and cooled) or vegetable oil for a dairy-free pumpkin loaf.
  • Pumpkin Bread Recipe without Spices: While I love my pumpkin spice, I understand that some people are not a big fan. If that is you, feel free to omit using any of the spices in the recipe below.
  • Pumpkin Bread without Eggs: If you’re looking for a vegan pumpkin loaf, replace the two eggs with two flax eggs to bind the batter.
    Don’t know how to make a flax egg? Simply combine 1 Tablespoon Ground Flaxseed with 3 Tablespoons warm water and allow to sit for 5 minutes until congealed.

FAQs:

Is pumpkin bread healthy?

While I am a true believer that every baked good that contains sugar should be consumed in moderation, I think my version of the easy and moist pumpkin recipe that I am sharing here is healthier than most other recipes because we are using coconut sugar. 
The beauty of coconut sugar is the lower impact it has on your blood sugar. Unlike refined white sugar, coconut sugar has all of its nutrients intact, like fiber, iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and is packed with a number of antioxidants. This alone makes it all the more good for us – it’s light, sweet, fruity flavor is just the bonus!

What goes good with pumpkin bread

My favorite way to enjoy this easy moist pumpkin bread is with a cup of latte. However, if I am having it for breakfast, I spread it with some Vermont Creamery’s butter with my morning coffee.
Alternatively, you can also treat yourself with a dollop of maple whipped cream, maple syrup cream cheese frosting, or a healthier alternative, homemade unsweetened applesauce.

Can I use the same batter to make muffins?

Yes – but a few adjustments are necessary. To make this pumpkin loaf recipe into 12 muffins, increase the oven temperature to 375 and decrease the cooking time to 15-20 minutes. But again, use the toothpick test and keep an eye on the muffins. Once they start to look golden brown on top, you know they are just about ready!
And if you are after another good pumpkin muffin recipe, may I suggest my Maple-Sweetened Pumpkin Oat Muffins? It is one of the most popular fall recipes on the blog that has gotten raving reviews from several of my readers.
If you can’t get enough of these types of quick breads, be sure to try this delicious Banana Bread as well.

Other pumpkin bread baked goods you might like

Thinking about what else you can make with canned pumpkin? Here are some recipes you might also like:

Other pumpkin recipes you might like

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Easy pumpkin bread recipe image
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Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This is a Simple Pumpkin Bread Recipe made from scratch without a mixer. Packed with warm autumn spices, this pumpkin quick bread is incredibly delicious and moist. Check out the blog post variations and freezing information.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 slices (One 9X5 Loaf Bread)
Calories 333kcal

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • cup whole wheat pastry flour*
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 cup coconut sugar*
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • cup Vermont Creamery unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • ¼ cup milk almond, coconut, oat, and regular milk would all work
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

As Garnish:

  • 1 cup walnuts/pumpkin seeds a few tablespoons more for garnishing

Instructions

  • Pre-heat oven to 350 F degrees. Lightly butter a 9X5 loaf pan and set aside.
  • Mix together the dry ingredients; all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, baking soda, baking powder, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin spice,  in a small bowl. Set aside.
  • Lightly beat eggs in a large bowl. Whisk in the coconut sugar. Add in pumpkin puree, melted (and cooled) butter, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until thoroughly combined. 
  • Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Do not overmix.
  • Fold in the walnuts.
  • Transfer to the prepared loaf pan. If preferred, garnish with more nuts on top.
  • Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  • When cool enough to handle, gently remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes before slicing.

Video

Notes

*If you don’t have whole wheat pastry flour, you can replace the ⅔ cup whole wheat pastry flour used in this recipe with ⅓ cup all-purpose flour and ⅓ cup whole wheat flour.  *If you don’t have coconut sugar, you can substitute it with the exact amount of light brown sugar.

Nutrition

Calories: 333kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 321mg | Potassium: 206mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 5074IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 2mg
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Homemade No-Knead Olive Bread Recipe https://foolproofliving.com/olive-bread-recipe/ https://foolproofliving.com/olive-bread-recipe/#comments Thu, 17 Oct 2019 21:30:21 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=25985 I am going to be honest, I am not a baker. And I am certainly not a bread baker. But…]]>

I am going to be honest, I am not a baker. And I am certainly not a bread baker. But when I originally found the no-knead bread recipe published by Mark Bittman in the New York Times, originally created by Jim Lahey of Sullivan Street Bakery in Manhattan, the world of bread baking was completely transformed.

Who knew you could bake a crusty loaf of bread in your home kitchen without the technique of kneading? I was instantly amazed.

A loaf of olive bread sliced and photographed from the top view

But then I realized, the 4-ingredient no-knead bread recipe is such a fantastic base, why not make it more interesting? And since olives are one of my pantry staples, as they are so prominent in Mediterranean cuisine, I knew I was on to something. So I got to work.

Crusty and rustic looking Olive loaf bread photographed in a Dutch oven as soon as it was taken out of the oven.

After a few trials and errors, this olive loaf bread became my new favorite. Warm from the oven, my husband and I simply couldn’t get enough. Once we tried it with Olive Oil Bread Dip, it was simply perfection. It makes a great go-to bread to bring to all of our upcoming holiday parties, too! Just think of this rustic bread as a delicious way to impress all your friends!

What is Olive Bread?

Olive bread, sometimes referred to as olive loaf (not to be confused with the cold cut version studded with olives), is a bread where the loaf of bread is laced with whole or chopped olives. This ensures a quintessential olive artisan bread flavor.

Where did olive loaf originate?

From my research, the olive loaf recipe seems to have originated in the Mediterranean, mostly in Italian and Greek cultures. And it makes sense since olives are such a staple ingredient in this region. Many times, you will find artisan bread makers with a version of olive bread in their shops. But today, it can easily be made in your home kitchen!

What is an olive loaf made of?

Homemade olive bread requires 5 simple ingredients:

  • Bread Flour
  • Active Dry Yeast
  • Kosher Salt
  • Lukewarm Water (more on that later below)
  • Chopped Kalamata Olives (but you can use any of your favorite olives – more on that below)
What is olive loaf made of: Ingredients for rustic olive bread recipe are laid out and photographed from the top view.

How to make olive bread?

This no-knead olive bread comes together in 3 folds.

A woman's hand are photographed from the top view as she is making a homemade olive bread recipe
  • First, mix the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the lukewarm water. Mix with a wooden spoon. At this point, the dough will be sticky.
    Stir in chopped kalamata olives and ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. (Feel free to also use your hands!) Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rest 18-24 hours in a warmer part of your kitchen.

PRO TIP: Warm water is very important to activate the yeast. Though you might ask, what is the exact temperature you are referring to when you say, “lukewarm water”?

Typically, this is a temperature between 100-110 degrees. You can use an instant-thermometer to know for sure. If you don’t have one, you can simply stick your finger in the center, if it feels slightly warm to the touch, you are good to go!

Learn how to make olive bread with Step by step photos
  • Second, transfer the dough from the bowl onto a lightly floured surface. It will be sticky. But if you gently remove the olive bread dough from the bowl, you will notice it will all come out easy and fold onto itself. If you need a visual, be sure to check out the quick how-to video in the recipe card below.
    Form the dough into a ball by tucking the sides of the dough under. Transfer to a large piece of parchment paper, lightly dust with flour, cover with a kitchen towel and allow to rise once more in a warmer part of your kitchen until doubled in size, 1-2 hours.
The olive loaf dough is resting
  • Lastly, towards the end of rising time, place your dutch oven in the oven and preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. When ready to bake, remove the very hot dutch oven from the oven with potholders.
    Using the edges of the parchment paper, carefully place the dough in the dutch oven, cover and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake another 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the olive loaf from the dutch oven and place it on a cooling rack to cool for 30-45 minutes before slicing.

PRO TIP: To know for sure that your bread is fully cooked through, once you remove it from the dutch oven, gently lift it over and tap the bottom of the bread loaf. If it sounds hollow, it’s done!

An important tip for using olives

Make sure the kalamata olives are completely drained as this rustic loaf recipe is already very moist and sticky. To ensure your olives are completely dry, chop first and pat them with paper towels to get rid of excess liquid.

Is olive bread healthy?

Yes, especially a dutch oven olive bread. Since olives have heart-healthy fats and we are making the bread from scratch with top-quality bread flour, it is good and good for you! So go ahead, have two, ahem, three slices!

What to serve with olive bread?

The rustic olive bread recipe is absolutely divine with Olive Oil Bread Dip (and a glass of wine!). But with the colder months coming, it also pairs perfectly with hearty fall and winter soups. Try it with Vegan Butternut Squash Soup, Ribollita Soup, Lentil Soup, Turkish Red Lentil Soup, or Homemade Vegetable Beef Soup.

Dutch oven no knead olive loaf recipe is photographed right after it came out of the oven

Olive Loaf Variations

The beauty of this rustic olive bread recipe is the number of variations you can make. I would recommend replacing the olives altogether or adding one additional ingredient to keep it simple. Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Olive Cheese Bread: Add 1 cup shredded white cheddar
  • Green Olive Bread Recipe: Replace the purple kalamata olives with chopped green olives
  • Olive and Herb Bread: Add 1 teaspoon each dried thyme and oregano to the dry ingredients
  • Olive Garlic Bread: Add 1 tsp garlic powder to the dry ingredients
  • Black Olive Bread: Replace the kalamata olives with black olives. I especially like the extra special briny bite of pitted, black oil-cured olives.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Bread Recipe: Add 1 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes
  • Olive Tapenade Bread: Replace the chopped olives with ½ cup strained olive tapenade
  • Rosemary Olive Bread Recipe: Add 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
  • Walnut Olive Bread: Add 1 cup chopped, toasted walnuts

A few tips for making the best recipe

  • Can I freeze this olive bread? You sure can. As a matter of fact, I usually make a few loaves on the same day. Let them cool completely, slice, place in freezer bags, and freeze until I am ready to use. When ready to serve, I toast a slice (or more) and serve.
  • Do I have to slice it before I freeze? Can I freeze the whole loaf? You can. However, (1) be sure to place it in an airtight container (I usually wrap it in a clean kitchen towel, place it in a freezer bag, and get as much air out as possible), and (2) be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
  • What is the best size of the Dutch oven to bake this olive loaf? I have made this baked bread in 3 different sizes of Dutch ovens and brands and they all worked well. The brands and sizes are as follows (the links below are affiliate links)
    Le Creuset Signature Cast-Iron Round Dutch Oven, 3 1/2-Qt
    Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
    Staub Cast Iron 5.5-Qt. Round Cocotte
  • A few requests for whole wheat olive bread have been mentioned. I have not tested this recipe with whole wheat flour as the structure and protein content is different than bread flour. If you are adventurous and want to try a whole wheat version of this bread on your own, I would start with replacing 25% of the bread flour with whole wheat and work your way up from there. I would love to know the results if you try it out!

Other bread recipes you might also like

Rustic Olive Bread Recipe
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Homemade No-Knead Olive Bread Recipe

This Homemade Olive Bread is a rustic and crusty no-knead bread recipe that anyone can make. Packed with Kalamata olives, this olive loaf comes together so easily in a Dutch oven.
Course Bread
Cuisine Mediterranean
Prep Time 18 hours
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 18 hours 50 minutes
Servings 8 slices (1 Loaf)
Calories 195kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour (360 gr. )
  • ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt*
  • 1 ⅓ cup lukewarm water (between 100-110 F degrees) (316 ml)
  • 1 cup chopped kalamata olives drained well

Instructions

  • Mix the dry ingredients; bread flour, active dry yeast, and kosher salt, in a large mixing bowl. 
  • Pour in 1 ⅓ cups (316 ml.) lukewarm water.
  • Give it a mix using a wooden spoon. At this point, the dough needs to be quite sticky. Stir in the chopped olives and ensure that they are equally distributed throughout the batter. (Alternatively, you can use your clean hands to mix and feel the stickiness.)
  • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warmer part of your house for 18-24 hours.In my tests, I found that the bread baked after 18 hours of rising time was perfect, but the 24-hour one was also good. One important thing to mention here is that at the end of the rising time you might see a thin (kind of hard – for the lack of a better word) layer at the top of the dough. Don’t be alarmed by that. In the next step, we will fold that into the dough and since it is a sticky one, the additional rising time will help soften it. 
  • Lightly flour a piece of parchment paper, gently remove the dough from the bowl, and place it onto the parchment. While removing, you will realize that it is quite sticky. However, if you take your time and gently pull it by folding it onto itself, you will see that it will come out easily without any dough remaining in the bowl. For a visual, be sure to watch the video below. 
  • Form the dough into a ball tucking the sides of the dough under. Lightly dust it with a little bit of flour, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. Again, I recommend letting it sit in a warmer part of your house. 
  • Towards the end of the rising time, place your dutch oven in the oven and pre-heat it to 450 F degrees. 
  • When ready to bake, carefully take the now-very hot dutch oven out of the oven. Using the edges of the parchment paper place the dough into the dutch oven. Put the lid on and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and continue to bake another 20-30 minutes or until the top is nicely golden brown as you see in the photos. 
  • At the end of the baking, remove it from the dutch oven, place it onto a cooling rack and let it cool for 30-45 minutes before slicing.

Video

Notes

  • I use Diamond Kosher Salt. If you are using Morton Kosher Salt or table salt, please use half the amount of salt.
  • It is imperative that you drain the olives well. 
  • When using olives in any recipe, it is best to give them a taste. If they are too salty, I would recommend letting them soak in water for an hour or so. Obviously, the longer they sit in the water the less salty they will become. Alternatively, you can use less salt, but I personally prefer to adjust the saltiness of the olives instead of using less salt. Because I like my bread dough to be properly seasoned. 
  • Storage: After it comes to room temperature, cover it with a kitchen towel and keep it on the kitchen counter. It should still be good the next day.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the whole loaf or slice it before freezing. Just make sure that it is fully cooled before doing so. Additionally, be sure to place it in an airtight freezer bag and get the air out as much as you can to prevent freezer burn. 
  • Thawing: If you froze it sliced, you can warm the slices in your toaster without having to wait for it to thaw. If you froze it as a whole, it is best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 845mg | Potassium: 54mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 66IU | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg
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Whole Wheat Biscuits https://foolproofliving.com/whole-wheat-biscuits/ https://foolproofliving.com/whole-wheat-biscuits/#comments Wed, 21 Nov 2018 16:39:36 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=21258 This post has been sponsored by Pleasant Hill Grain, but as always all opinions are my own. I’ll be honest.…]]>

This post has been sponsored by Pleasant Hill Grain, but as always all opinions are my own.

I’ll be honest. It takes a very long time and effort to build a food blog and be able to call yourself a full-time food blogger. But once you get there, this job offers some pretty cool perks. In the world we currently live in, a blogger is also considered an influencer. And as a foodie influencer, sometimes you get to try some really cool kitchen tools.

Layers of Whole Wheat Biscuits photographed from the front view

Today’s recipe, Whole Wheat Biscuits is made with my current favorite kitchen gadget KoMo Mio Grain Mill that I was gifted by Pleasant Hill Grain.

Five years ago when I first started this blog, if you had told me that one day I am going to own a grain mill I would not believe you. But today, I am a proud owner of one and I am thrilled to be sharing this with you. Because let me tell you, baked goods made with freshly milled flour tastes 100% better than store-bought flour.

As you can see in the photos, my very first recipe using my new grain mill is a basic easy homemade biscuits recipe that is made with only 6 ingredients. I chose this recipe intentionally because I have made it using store-bought whole wheat flour many times before. Having known how it tasted, I could easily tell the difference.

whole wheat biscuit recipe photographed with flour mill

As soon as I received my new grain mill, I put my go-to homemade biscuits recipe to test. This time with freshly milled whole wheat pastry flour that I milled myself using organic soft white wheat berries. Aaaand it did not disappoint. This version was truly superior to the one that I was accustomed to making with supermarket whole wheat flour.

Also, on a quite selfish note, it was pretty awesome to know that I literally made it from scratch.

As we are approaching the gifting season if you know someone who loves to bake, have allergies to certain flours (like people who follow a gluten-free diet), and/or enjoy playing with different grains in their cooking, I cannot imagine a better gift than a KoMo Mio Grain Mill. Because someone with those interest would have so many opportunities to put this kitchen tool into good use.

Now onto the recipe…

a woman is putting grains into a flour milling machine to make flour for whole grain biscuits

Hard white wheat vs. soft white wheat

Before I start talking about how to make whole wheat flour biscuits, I’d like to take a moment and talk about what grain produces whole wheat flour. Because if I am being honest, I have always purchased my whole wheat flour from a supermarket and never milled my own at home.

Along with the grain mill, folks over at Pleasant Hills Grain sent me a box full of grains for me to try. Grains like kamut, oat groats, spelt, amaranth, buckwheat, einkorn, hard white wheat berries, and soft white wheat berries. All of which were organic.

Me being new in milling my own flours, I wasn’t sure whether I should use hard white or soft white wheat berries to make my whole wheat flour biscuits. After a little research, I found out that they were actually quite different.

Without going into too much detail, hard white wheat berries have a high protein (gluten) content and are mostly used in baked goods that use yeast as the rising agent. It produces what we call “Whole Wheat Flour” and is perfect for bread recipes made with whole wheat flour.

Its softer counterpart, soft white wheat berries, produces what we call “Whole Wheat Pastry Flour” after it is milled. Compared to hard white wheat, it has low protein content that produces tender whole grain pastries and is ideal for any recipe that uses baking soda and/or baking powder as the rising agent.

If you are making cookies, muffins, pancakes, or biscuits, whole wheat pastry flour produces a softer and more tender end product. This is exactly why, I used whole wheat pastry flour to make this whole wheat biscuit recipe.

How to make whole wheat biscuits at home

The process of making this recipe has 4 folds.

ingredients for whole wheat buttermilk biscuits

First, you cut your butter into small cubes, place in a bowl and place in the freezer while you are prepping the rest of the ingredients. Do not skip this step as it is imperative to have your butter cold for the most crumbly and tender whole wheat biscuits.

wheat biscuit recipe dry ingredients are being mixed by a woman

Second, you mix your dry ingredients; whole wheat pastry flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl. You can either sift them through a flour sifter or use a whisk to mix them.

Third, you work the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter (or the back of a fork) just until it resembles coarse crumbs. It is okay if there are large pieces of butter in the dough. Next, you add in the buttermilk and fold it in using a wooden spoon or clean hands.

Don’t have access to buttermilk? No worries! Use my favorite buttermilk substitute below: Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk + 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar (or freshly squeezed lemon juice)
Method: Whisk the two ingredients in a bowl. Place it in the fridge and let it sit for 5-10 minutes and use in your baking. This buttermilk substitute will not be as thick as the original one, but it will still yield a similar wheat biscuit recipe at the end.

whole wheat pastry flour is mixed with butter and then shaped into a dough

Finally, you transfer the dough onto a lightly flour surface and pat it into a rectangular. Then fold it in over itself in thirds. Repeat this process one more time. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a rectangular that is 1-inch to 1 ¼ inch thick.

I used a 2 ¾ inch cookie cutter, which yielded 8 whole wheat buttermilk biscuits at the end. However if you don’t have one, you can also use a jar to cut out your biscuits. Be sure to dip it in flour to be able to score the dough easily.

PRO Tip: While you can certainly roll the dough with your hands, using a rolling pin limits the possibility of overworking the dough and prevent your warm body temperature melt out the butter chunks that will help us produce a tender whole grain biscuit at the end.

However, be very gentle and roll only a 2 or 3 times until you get your whole wheat biscuit dough 1-inch thick.

If you use a similar size cookie/biscuit cutter, the first batch will yield 6 biscuits. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

You can repeat the same process with the remaining dough by kneading it gently and rolling it out to a rectangular one more time. However, be aware that each subsequent rolling and cutting of the dough yields tougher biscuits.

Learn how to make homemade biscuits recipe from scratch - A woman is cutting the dough using cookie cutters

What to do with the leftover whole wheat biscuit dough

After I get 8 biscuits, I roll the leftover dough and use a smaller cookie cutter to cut it. I freeze them for later to bake and serve with soups and stews. These thinner and smaller ones are more like crackers than biscuits, but nonetheless a great surprise to serve with your favorite dishes.

Alternatively, you can use a knife to cut out the dough into squares if you want to reduce the waste and additional work.

Cold biscuit dough and hot oven for the best homemade biscuits

A very hot oven is also key to good biscuits. I bake them in a 450 F degree countertop oven in 2 batches. It takes between 11-12 minutes or until the tops of the biscuits turn lightly golden brown.

I recommend turning on your oven when your biscuits are cut out and ready. While it is heating, place the baking sheet in the freezer to keep your biscuits cold.

If you are short on time, you can certainly skip this step and preheat your oven before you start making the recipe and bake them as soon as they are cut out and ready.

However if you have time, letting the whole wheat biscuits sit in the freezer for a few minutes delivers a more tender and crumbly end product.

Can I make these whole wheat biscuits using whole wheat flour instead?

As I was doing my research for this post, I saw a few people make these biscuits using a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour and just by using whole wheat flour. So I put the same exact recipe to test by only changing the flour.

Below are my findings:

  • 1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour + 1 Cup All Purpose Flour: Instead of using whole wheat pastry flour, I milled some hard white wheat berries and mixed the flour with 1 cup of all purpose flour. The biscuits made with this combination rose slightly higher than the version made with whole wheat pastry flour.
    However, they tasted more like bread and were less airy and crumbly.
  • 2 Cups Whole Wheat Flour: The version made with whole wheat flour rose to a similar height, looked almost the same, and had comparable earthy tones in taste with its version made with whole wheat pastry flour.
    However, while they weren’t bad, I thought the original version was softer and more crumbly.
Whole Wheat Biscuits made from whole wheat pastry flour placed on a plate with butter on the side

THE VERDICT – What Flour is Best for Biscuits?

I think the answer to this question depends on your personal preference. I personally liked the version made with whole wheat pastry flour. It was crumbly and very satisfying with its earthy flavors.

However, if the look is important to you and like your biscuits taller, then go with the one made with whole wheat and all purpose flours.

My least favorite one was the biscuits made with whole wheat flour. While they looked good, they were tougher and less crumbly.

Can I freeze these whole wheat biscuits and bake them later?

You absolutely can. As a matter of fact, I recommend doing so. During my testings, I found out that the additional resting time in the freezer yields biscuits that are slightly higher and more crumbly.
And let’s face it, what is better than freshly baked biscuits ready in 15 minutes on a Tuesday night?

To do so, freeze the cut out biscuits, uncovered, on the baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. You do NOT need to thaw them before baking. Instead, just bake a few minutes (no more than 2-3) more to the baking time.

What to do with the leftover whole wheat flour biscuits?

These homemade biscuits are best on the day that they are baked, which is why I only bake the amount I want to serve and freeze the rest.
However, if you have leftovers you can store them in an airtight container on the kitchen counter for one more day after they are fully cooled.

Are wheat biscuits healthy?

I am no doctor or nutritionist, but I think it is safe to say that these whole wheat pastry flour biscuits are healthier than store-bought biscuits, especially if you mill your own grains.

While I recommend consuming it in moderation, I think we can all agree on the fact that making them from scratch without any preservatives is much healthier than pre-made supermarket biscuits.

healthy biscuit recipe made with the flour made from komo mio mill

Other bread and biscuits recipes you might also like:

 

Whole wheat biscuits recipe
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Whole Wheat Biscuits Recipe

These light and fluffy Whole Wheat Biscuits are made with whole wheat pastry flour. They are ready in 25 minutes and perfect to serve along with any meal.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 8 biscuits
Calories 192kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Whole Wheat Pastry Flour plus more for the surface and biscuit cutter
  • 2 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons very cold unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup buttermilk cold

Instructions

  • Cut butter into small 1-inch cubes, place in a bowl and keep it in the freezer while you are preparing the rest of the ingredients.
  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
  • Add in the cold butter cubes into the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, work the butter into the flour just until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Pour in the buttermilk. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until combined.
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently work to dough to make it cohesive using your hands without overworking it. If it is too sticky add in some flour.
  • Once the dough is cohesive, pat it out into a rectangular.  Fold it in thirds and gently flatten. Rotate the dough 90 degrees and fold it again. Repeat the same process for one more time. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangular that is 1 ¼ inch thick in height.
  • Dip a 2 ¾  inch round cutter into flour and then press it straight down into the dough. Transfer the biscuit onto a parchment line baking sheet with at least 1-inch space in between biscuits.
  • If you need it, dip the biscuit cutter in flour in between.
  • Repeat until you have 8 biscuits. *Read the post to what to do about the leftover dough.*
  • Place the biscuits in the freezer and preheat your oven to 450 degrees.
  • Bake in the oven for 12 minutes or until the top of the biscuits turn lightly golden brown.
  • If preferred, lightly brush them with butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
  • Serve them while they are still warm.

Video

Notes

* Alternatively, you can preheat your oven while you are making the biscuits and bake them right away. Please read the blog most for more information.

Nutrition

Calories: 192kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 345mg | Potassium: 139mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Calcium: 97mg | Iron: 1mg
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No Knead Artisan Bread https://foolproofliving.com/no-knead-artisan-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/no-knead-artisan-bread/#comments Fri, 02 Nov 2018 17:57:37 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=21128 In November 2006, the food writer Mark Bittman published a bread recipe in the New York Times that shook the…]]>

In November 2006, the food writer Mark Bittman published a bread recipe in the New York Times that shook the world of bread bakers. The recipe, originally created by Jim Lahey of the Sullivan Street Bakery in Manhattan, was a no-knead bread that promised what many thought to be impossible: A crusty bread that is made with only 4 ingredients (flour, yeast, salt, and water) baked in a dutch oven (heavy bottom cast iron skillet with a lid) without the need for kneading.

No Knead Artisan Bread photographed right out of oven

It wasn’t long after it was published that this homemade artisan bread recipe gained a cult following and raving fans. According to the New York Times, even to this day, Jim Lahey’s No Knead Bread remains as one of the most popular recipes of their website.

As the foodie that I am, I had heard about this no knead artisan bread recipe and the magic of baking bread in dutch oven, but never attempted baking it, mainly because I live in Vermont and I am spoiled with an amazing bakery right around the corner from where I live. Also, I am a little bit of intimidated when it comes to making bread.

No Knead Bread Recipe - Sliced rustic bread photographed from the top view.

However, when I saw an adapted version of it in Staub’s newly published cookbook, The Staub Cookbook (affiliate link), with an out-of-this-world photograph (similar to the very first photo on this post), I had to give it a try and see whether or not what everyone has been raving about was true.

It did not disappoint.

On my very first try, following the Staub’s recipe word by word, I was able to get the a bread that looks exactly like what you see in these photos. And here I would like to mention; I don’t consider myself as a bread baker or a person who enjoys the long process of creating crusty artisan bread that you see in foodie magazines.

But this recipe was different. For one thing, as the name suggests, there was almost no kneading needed. Second, the hands on time was no more than 15-20 minutes from start to finish. And lastly, all I needed was 4 ingredients (which is why some people refer to this bread as 4-Ingredient Bread in most websites and bread-baker circles).

However, like it is in anything in life, something had to give, and in this case, it was time (18-24 hours) and a dutch oven with a lid. If you have both, I guess it is not a bad compromise.

Intrigued? Read on…

How To Make Artisan Bread

I thought that it would be helpful to explain each step with helpful photographs. Therefore, below you will find step by step instructions as to how to make this crusty bread in your own kitchen with helpful tips.

Artisan Bread Ingredients – What is in this 4-Ingredient Bread Recipe?

4 ingredient bread recipe ingredients

Like I mentioned earlier, there are only 4 ingredients in this recipe and they are:

  • 3 cups of bread flour – I used King Arthur Flour
  • ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast – Fleischmanns’ active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt – Diamond kosher salt
  • 1 ⅓ cups lukewarm water – More on this below

If you a regular baker, you know that when it comes to baking you have to be very precise so I made it a point to share the brands that I used for my version of this no knead artisan bread recipe.

With that being said, as I was preparing for this recipe (reading through other people’s trials of this recipe) I learned that it is pretty “foolproof” and works with pretty much with every brand.

Please know that I am not being paid to refer these brands to you. Rather, my goal here is to be honest and helpful as you make it in your own kitchen.

What Does Lukewarm Water Mean?

While I was not able to find an exact definition to the meaning of “lukewarm” water, according to this article, if the water is warmer than your body temperature, meaning you touch it and feel like it is warm but not hot, then it is considered lukewarm.

In the context of this recipe, the ideal “lukewarm” temperature that worked in my testings was between 80 – 90 F degrees. If you have a digital thermometer handy, you can measure it, or if you don’t, you can do the feel test that I mentioned above.

Step By Step Instructions

Making Dutch Oven Bread steps - a woman is mixing flour and adding water
  1. Mix in the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour in 1 ⅓ cups (316 ml.) lukewarm water.
How To Make Crusty Bread - A woman is mixing dough in a bowl and letting it rise
  1. Give it a mix using a wooden spoon. At this point, the dough needs to be quite sticky. If it is not, after you fully mixed it, add in more water in 1-tablespoon increments. Alternatively, you can use your clean hands to mix and feel the stickiness.
    Here, I’d like to mention that before publishing it in here, I made this recipe for 4 times and I had never needed to add more than 1 additional tablespoon into the mix.
  2. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warmer part of your house for 18-24 hours (quick trivia: due to this lengthy time of rising some people also refer to this bread as overnight bread) .
    In my tests, I found that the bread baked after 18 hours of rising time was perfect, but the 24-hour one was also good.
    One important thing to mention here is that at the end of the rising time you might see a thin (kind of hard – for the lack of a better word) layer at the top of the dough (as you can see in the picture (4) above). Don’t be alarmed by that. In the next step, we will fold that into the dough and since it is a sticky one, the additional rising time will help soften it.
Rustic Bread Recipe being prepared - risen bread dough photographed from two different angles
  1. Lightly flour your kitchen counter, gently remove the dough from the bowl, and place it onto your work surface. While removing, you will realize that it is quite sticky. However, if you take your time and gently pull it by folding it onto itself, you will see that it will come out easily without any dough remaining in the bowl.
    Form the dough into a ball tucking the sides of the dough under. Transfer the dough onto a large parchment paper, lightly dust with a little bit of flour, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. Again, I recommend letting it sit in a warmer part of your house.
  2. Towards the end of the rising time, place your dutch oven in the oven and pre-heat it to 450 F degrees. I will talk about the type of ovens and dutch ovens that are ideal for this recipe in more detail below.
    When ready to bake, take the now-very hot dutch oven out of the oven. Using the edges of the parchment paper carefully place the dough into the dutch oven. Put the lid on and let it bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and continue to bake another 20-30 minutes or until the top is nicely golden brown as you see in the photos.
    At the end of the baking, remove it from the dutch oven, place it onto a cooling rack and let it cool for 30-45 minutes before slicing.
Freshly baked No Knead Bread Dutch Oven

If you are still with me and are encouraged to give it a try, I want to answer a few more questions that I had when I first read this recipe: (1) What is the best size of the Dutch oven for this no knead bread? (2) Can I bake this in a smaller countertop oven? (3)The best temperature to bake this bread.

The Best Size of Dutch Oven for this No Knead Crusty Bread

When I shared one of the photos of this bread on my Instagram feed, someone asked about the size of my dutch oven, which was a question that I had as well.

The original recipe on The Staub Cookbook doesn’t specify a particular size other than saying “a medium cast iron cocoette”. But what does that mean, especially if you don’t own that same exact brand?

To find the answer, I made this bread in 2 different size dutch ovens.

The first one, the navy blue dutch oven you see in the photos, was a 3 ½ quarts Le Creuset dutch oven (affiliate link). In my opinion, this was the ideal size for this dutch oven bread as it fit perfectly into the cast iron skillet and maintained its shape throughout the baking process.

The second dutch oven I baked this easy artisan bread was this 6-quart Lodge dutch oven (affiliate link). The result with this one was just as good. Before I tried baking in this larger cast iron skillet, I thought that the bread would spread quite a bit during the process, but surprisingly it maintained its shape quite well. Yes, it did spread a little bit, but it wasn’t too noticeable.

I wanted share this as I wanted to let you know that you can still make this homemade artisan bread even if you don’t own “the right size” dutch oven.

Overnight Bread sliced and photographed with jam

Can I bake this in a smaller countertop oven instead of a large wall oven?

Let’s make one thing clear here. I believe that spreading a thick layer of butter onto a slice of this homemade rustic bread is quite a satisfactory feeling after waiting for 24 hours for it to rise. Not to mention seeing my husband’s face when he saw the freshly baked dough while it was cooling on the counter.

However, it was important to me to not to break the bank with a high power bill at the end of the month just to experience the aforementioned feeling of accomplishment. So, to see if this bread would also work in a smaller countertop style oven (this Wolf Gourmet countertop oven is the one I own – affiliate link), I baked it in it as well.

It worked perfectly, just as it did in the large wall oven. The only issue was that the larger 6-quart Lodge dutch oven didn’t fit into my countertop oven when the lid was on.

That is why, please know that (depending on your countertop oven) this is a good option if you have a smaller (3 ½ quart dutch oven).

Best Temperature to Bake Bread

The original recipe in The Staub Cookbook suggested baking this no-knead artisan bread in a pre-heated 475 F degree oven.

In my case, the issue was that the highest temperature that my countertop oven provided me with was 450 F degrees so I didn’t have an option but to bake it in 450 F degrees.

To my surprise, it worked perfectly.

Then on my third try, this time baking it in the large wall oven, I tried baking it in the same temperature (450 F degree), and again, it yielded a gorgeous loaf of crusty bread similar to what you see in the photos.

I wanted to mention this because this is the only change I made to the original recipe in the book. If you are not sure of your oven temperature, you can get an inexpensive digital oven thermometer (affiliate link) to make sure that it is providing you with the temperature you need.

How Long To Bake Bread

In all 4 of my testings, in both ovens, the bread baked under 1 hour. Like I mentioned earlier, I had the lid on in the first 30 minutes and then I removed it for the latter part of the baking process.

The second part of the baking process, without the lid on, took between 23-27 minutes. However, a good indication is by simply looking at the crust. If its golden brown, you are good to go.

no knead artisan bread recipe on a cutting board with a bread knife next to it.

A Few Last Minute Notes on The Best Artisan Bread

  • Can I freeze this bread? Yes, you can. Simply let it fully cool to room temperature, wrap it in a plastic bag, and store in your freezer up to a month. When ready, thaw it on the kitchen counter (in its packaging) until it reaches room temperature, and then reheat in a 350 F degree oven for 8-10 minutes.
  • Should I slice it before I freeze it? It is up to you whether you slice it or not. It is much easier to consume when sliced, but if you don’t seal the packaging properly, later you might run into freezer burn issues. So be sure to seal it well after you take the slices you need.
  • Can I make this bread with gluten-free or whole wheat flour?: I have not tried baking this no knead crusty bread using any other flour than bread flour, but from what I understand from a few articles I read on the internet, this recipe is not ideal if you are using gluten-free or whole wheat flour.
  • Do I need to grease the Dutch Oven before placing the dough into it?: No, you do not. The beauty of cast iron is that since it is so hot that it doesn’t let the dough stick to the pot. Plus, the parchment paper also helps.
  • Any decorations or scoring on top?: I haven’t tried scoring it in fun ways, but I saw a few people score the top with a sharp knife. So play around with it as you like.

Whether you are an avid bread baker or an amateur one like I am, I hope you found this post helpful and feel encouraged to give this easy no-knead bread recipe a try. As you make this recipe in your own kitchen, if you have any questions feel free to drop me a line via email or comment below. I’ll try to help as much as I can.

If you liked this homemade rustic bread recipe, you might also like

Great recipes to serve with this bread

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No Knead Artisan Bread Recipe Image
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No Knead Artisan Bread

No Knead Artisan Bread Recipe – This artisan style crusty bread gets its complex flavors and chewy interior from a 24 hour rising time. With only 4 ingredients, even the most intimidated baker can easily make this practically foolproof bread.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Prep Time 1 day
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 day 1 hour
Servings 8 slices (1 Loaf)
Calories 170kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 cups (360 grams) of bread flour
  • ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 ⅓ cups (316 ml) lukewarm water*

Instructions

  • Mix in the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  • Pour  in 1 ⅓ cups (316 ml.) lukewarm water.
  • Give it a mix using a wooden spoon. At this point, the dough needs to be quite sticky. If it is not, after you fully mixed it, add in more water in 1-tablespoon increments. Alternatively, you can use your clean hands to mix and feel the stickiness.
  • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warmer part of your house for 18-24 hours.
  • Lightly flour your kitchen counter, gently remove the dough from the bowl, and place it onto your work surface. While removing, you will realize that it is quite sticky. However, if you take your time and gently pull it by folding it onto itself, you will see that it will come out easily without any dough remaining in the bowl.
  • Form the dough into a ball tucking the sides of the dough under. Transfer the dough onto a large parchment paper, lightly dust with a little bit of flour, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. Again, I recommend letting it sit in a warmer part of your house.
  • Towards the end of the rising time, place your dutch oven in the oven and pre-heat it to 450 F degrees (230 C Degrees). 
  • When ready to bake, take the now-very hot dutch oven out of the oven. Using the edges of the parchment paper carefully place the dough into the dutch oven. Put the lid on and let it bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and continue to bake another 20-30 minutes or until the top is nicely golden brown as you see in the photos.
  • At the end of the baking, remove it from the dutch oven, place it onto a cooling rack and let it cool for 30-45 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Please read the blog post for more details on the following:
  • the brands I used for this recipe
  • the type of dutch oven I used
  • the oven I baked it in.

Nutrition

Calories: 170kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 584mg | Potassium: 47mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 1mg

This recipe is adapted from the No Knead Cast Iron Skillet recipe on The Staub Cookbook.

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Savory Cornbread Muffins with Cheddar and Scallions https://foolproofliving.com/cornbread-muffins/ https://foolproofliving.com/cornbread-muffins/#comments Sun, 07 Jan 2018 15:23:44 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=15887 The incredibly cold weather continues to rule our lives. This morning, I had my first ever frost bite when I…]]>

The incredibly cold weather continues to rule our lives. This morning, I had my first ever frost bite when I mistakenly forgot my gloves at home. I was on my way to the supermarket and in that 3-minute short walk from my car to the store, my hands got all cracked. It was -10 F degrees, but felt like -24.

Needless to say, it was a lesson learned. After this experience, my husband and I decided to not leave the house unless we have to until the temperatures rise. Currently, I have a big pot of this Three Bean Turkey Chili on the stovetop simmering and these corn muffins are in the oven baking.

A basket full of freshly baked savory corn muffins along with a few half eaten ones are photographed from the top view.

How To Make Cornbread Muffins

I don’t know about you, but for me what I serve with my chili is just as important as the chili itself. If I am being honest, I just can’t think of a better accompaniment than these moist cornbread muffins. They are flavored with sharp cheddar, scallions, and fresh corn. With every bite you get a little bit of each of those ingredients making it extra rich and flavorful.

A basket full of freshly baked savory cornbread muffins are photographed from the front view.

The process for making this Savory Cornbread muffin recipe has 3 folds:

First, you mix the wet ingredients, melted butter, milk, eggs and honey, in a bowl. Second, you mix the dry ingredients, whole-wheat flour, corn meal, baking powder, and salt and pepper, in another bowl. Finally, you mix them together and add in the flavor agents, corn, scallions and cheddar cheese.

Once your corn bread muffin batter is ready, I recommend using an ice cream scoop to fill the muffin tins so that all your muffins will be similar in size and bake evenly.

I know a lot of people love Jiffy Cornbread Muffin mix, and believe me, I used to be one of them. However, I promise you, my version here, cornbread from scratch, just as good, if not better. And the best part is that the recipe below includes none of the hard-to-read ingredients in their mixes. You know what goes in there and the process is not much different. So I say, we all have no excuse but to make our own.

Three Bean Turkey Chili placed next to this corn bread muffin recipe
Three Bean Turkey Chili Recipe
Chocolate chili to serve with corn muffins
Spicy Vegan Chocolate Chili

How To Make Cornbread Moist

As you can see, making this savory cornbread muffin recipe is not hard, but there is nothing more frustrating than taking the time to make them from scratch just to end up with dry muffins. Here are my 3 tips to make the best moist corn muffins:

  1. Add fat to the batter: Most corn muffin recipes use moistening agents like heavy cream, melted butter, sour cream, yogurt or milk in their batter. That is because the addition of fat makes cornbread more rich and moist. In my version of the corn muffin recipe here, I used melted butter, milk, and cheddar cheese as the additional fat. All those three ingredients has ample amount of fat that gave the end product a nice moist texture.
  2. Let the batter rest: Now I know I have been saying that this is a quick corn muffin recipe to make, but if you have time, I recommend letting the batter sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes. If you want, you can also make the batter in the evening and keep it in the fridge in an airtight container to bake the next day.
    The time spent resting allows the batter absorb available moisture from the batter, making corn meal swell and soften, which results in a moister corn bread muffins.
  3. Let them cool in a well ventilated area to stop the baking process: The recipe below suggests baking time of 22-25 minutes. Here, it is important that you take them out and let them cool in a well ventilated area to stop the baking process. I would even recommend taking them out of the tin and letting them cool on a rack as soon as you can handle them. This way they will not have a chance to dry out.

A Few Notes On This Healthy Cornbread Recipe

  • When you are filling the muffin tins, be sure to fill them all the way up. If you end up with more batter, bake them as a second batch.
  • These savory cornbread muffins would be fresh up to 3 days if kept in an airtight container on the kitchen counter.
  • This recipe uses only a teaspoon sweetener (honey). If you would rather make sweeter cornbread, I would recommend giving this Jalapeno and Scallion Cornbread recipe a try instead.
  • If you prefer to freeze these cornmeal muffins, you can do so after they are baked and fully cooled. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep in the freezer up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them on the counter for half an hour and heat in a preheated 250 degree oven for 10-15 minutes.
  • You can use fresh, frozen or canned corn. If you decide to use frozen corn, let it thaw on the counter for 20 minutes and be sure to drain any of the liquid it generates as it is thawing. And if you are using canned corn, again, be sure to drain it before adding it into the batter.
  • When I want to switch things up, I sometimes add a half a cup of chopped fresh dill into the recipe. If you are a lover of dill, I recommend giving it a try.
  • While I usually serve this as an accompaniment to my chilis (like you see in the above photos), or recently, with this Vegetable Beef Soup, these cornbread muffins also make a great savory breakfast muffin to serve along with egg dishes or even just by itself with some butter and jam.

 

A basket full of freshly baked cornbread muffins are photographed from the front view.
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Savory Cornbread Muffins

Moist and Savory Cornbread Muffins made from scratch and flavored with scallions, sharp cheddar, and corn kernels. It comes together in less than 15-minutes and bakes in less than half an hour.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 12 muffins
Calories 229kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces (113 gr.) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, at room temperature
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 ¼ cups (155 gr) whole-wheat flour
  • 1 cup (180gr) fine-grind cornmeal
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen and thawed corn kernels
  • 1 cup (55 gr) scallions, sliced, from a small bunch
  • 1 cup 4 oz / 115 gr sharp Cheddar cheese, grated and divided
  • Handfull of dill as garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a lightly greased 12-muffin pan with liners and set aside.
  • In a medium size mixing bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and honey until fully combined. Set aside.
  • In another mixing bowl, mix together whole-wheat flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add in the wet ingredients into the dry ones and mix until combined. You should have a smooth but mildly thick batter.
  • Stir in the corn, scallions and ½ cup of the cheese. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.
  • Sprinkle each muffin with the rest of the cheese.
  • Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean, 22-25 minutes.
  • Cool in the pan for 5 minutes and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Garnish with dill (if preferred) and serve.

Notes

  • As I mentioned in the post, I serve them with soups and chilis. I personally like them when they are still warm, but they are very good when they are at room temperature. Additionally, they make the best savory breakfast muffins that you can serve with butter and jam.
  • These muffins would be fresh up to 3 days if kept in an airtight container.
  • If you prefer to freeze, you can do so after they are baked and fully cooled. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep in the freezer up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them on the counter for half an hour and heat in a pre-heated 250 degree oven for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 229kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 575mg | Potassium: 193mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 796IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 179mg | Iron: 2mg

About Healthyish: A Cookbook with Seriously Satisfying, Truly Simple, Good-For-You (but not too Good-For-You) Recipes for Real Life

This recipe has been adapted from Healthyish: A Cookbook with Seriously Satisfying, Truly Simple, Good-For-You (but not too Good-For-You) Recipes for Real Life. I did make a few minor changes to the original recipe, like swapping sugar with honey and adding dill into the recipe as garnish. I love this book, as it’s title suggests, it is full of healtyish and do-able recipes with ingredients that are readily available in most well-stocked pantries. I have already made over 5 dishes from the book and they were all very good. As a matter of fact, I’ll be featuring another one next week. The book is coming out on January 9th, 2018 and I cannot recommend it enough if you are looking for creative ways to change up your cooking.

This recipe is adapted (with minor changes) from Healthyish, which will come out on January 9th, 2018. A copy of the book was sent to me by the publisher, Abrams, as a part of their Abrams Dinner Party. As always, all opinions listed below are mine.

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Vegan Zucchini Bread with Walnuts https://foolproofliving.com/vegan-zucchini-and-walnut-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/vegan-zucchini-and-walnut-bread/#comments Fri, 12 Aug 2016 14:42:08 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=10260 Today’s recipe, Vegan Zucchini Bread is a summer classic, but made in a healthier way, inspired by those super humans…]]>
Zucchini bread being sliced on a cutting board.

Today’s recipe, Vegan Zucchini Bread is a summer classic, but made in a healthier way, inspired by those super humans in the 2016 Rio Olympics. It is made with rather healthier ingredients like maple syrup, whole-wheat flour, coconut oil, and flax seeds. 

How To Make Vegan Zucchini Bread:

The process of making this healthy zucchini bread recipe has three folds.

First, you make flax eggs. Flax eggs are made with mixing ground flax seeds with water to substitute for eggs in vegan baking. The ratio for flax seeds to water for one egg is 1 to 2 1/2. In other words, to substitute for 1 egg you mix 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds with 2 1/2 tablespoons of water.

Sliced and half eaten zucchini bread on a plate

Second, shred the zucchini. I use my box shredder, but you can also use a food processor with the shredder attachment. If you are new to using zucchini in your baking, you can learn more about it in my comprehensive guide to cutting zucchini.

The important thing here is to squeeze the juices of the zucchini as much as you can. To do so, you can (1)place the shredded zucchini in a colander set over a bowl, let it sit for half an hour, and press with the back of a spatula or (2) place it in a clean kitchen towel, wrap it tightly, and squeeze it until no juices remain.

With that being said, once I accidentally forgot to squeeze the juices of the zucchini and ended up with a little softer and moister bread, which was still great. So if you miss this step it is not the end of the world. Your vegan zucchini bread will still be yummy.

Third step is making the batter. It is pretty much a straightforward step. First, you mix the wet ingredients and then add in the dry ones. It all happens in one bowl and requires no mixer.

To give it a little bit of crunch and nuttiness at the end I added some walnuts, but if you are not a fan you can substitute them with pistachios or pine nuts. If you are not a big fan of nuts, you can also omit them completely.

A sliced healthy Zucchini Bread Recipe - no sugar and no eggs
A slice of Vegan Zucchini Bread on a plate for breakfast with coffee.

I know that vegan baking can be intimidating to some people, especially if you have never tried it before. Using flax eggs for regular eggs, maple syrup for granulated sugar, and coconut oil for butter are new concepts for some bakers. Believe me, I am on the same boat. However, in my years of writing this blog I learned that when it comes to these new ingredients (and sometimes techniques) you start with baby steps and learn by trying recipes that are foolproof. This healthy zucchini bread is just that: foolproof.

With just a few ingredients swaps, you can turn into a classic summer loaf into a healthier breakfast that you can serve everyone in your family.

Other Zucchini Recipes You Might Like:


vegan zucchini bread half eaten on a plate
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Vegan Zucchini and Walnut Bread

This amazing Vegan Zucchini and Walnut Bread recipe is made with healthier ingredients like maple syrup, coconut oil, whole wheat flour, and flax seeds. It is quick and easy to make and pairs so well with a cup of coffee in the morning.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 slices (One 9X5 loaf of bread)
Calories 241kcal

Ingredients

To make the flax eggs:

  • 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
  • 5 tablespoons water at room temperature

To make the batter:

  • 1/3 cup melted coconut oil melted and cooled
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • cups 1 small zucchini – 7 ounces grated zucchini, juices squeezed
  • cups 9.625 oz whole wheat flour
  • ¾ cup unsalted raw walnuts roughly chopped

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 325 F. Degrees. Spray a loaf pan (either 9X5 or 8 1/2 X 4 ½) with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. Set it aside.
  • To make the flax eggs, whisk together the ground flax seeds with water. Let it sit on the counter and thicken for 5-7 minutes.
  • Whisk together the flax eggs, coconut oil, maple syrup, almond milk in a bowl. Stir in the baking soda, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg.
  • Switch to a wooden spoon and stir in the zucchini. Add in the flour and stir just until combined.
  • Gently fold in the walnuts.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes* or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and let it cool for 20 minutes. Slice and serve.
  • This bread will keep fresh 2 days in room temperature as long as it is kept in an airtight container. You can also slice it and store it in the fridge up to 5 days.

Video

Notes

*About the baking time: The original recipe suggests to bake the loaf for 55-60 minutes. However, I found that 40 minutes was more than enough for this bread. Therefore, I highly recommend keeping a close eye on it after the 40-minute mark.

Nutrition

Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 308mg | Potassium: 215mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 47IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 1mg

This recipe is adapted (with minor changes) from Cookie and Kate’s Healthy Zucchini Bread recipe. 


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Millet and Buckwheat Bread {Vegan + Gluten-Free} https://foolproofliving.com/millet-and-buckwheat-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/millet-and-buckwheat-bread/#comments Fri, 24 Apr 2015 22:43:29 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=6231 I have never baked a gluten-free bread before. Neither my husband nor I do have celiac disease. And truth be…]]>

I have never baked a gluten-free bread before. Neither my husband nor I do have celiac disease. And truth be told, I don’t know much about baking gluten free. But when Amy Chaplin, who is one of my favorite vegan/vegetarian chefs, posted this recipe on her blog I was intrigued.

Millet and Buckwheat Bread sliced from the top view

To be honest, I wanted to read more about it not because it was gluten-free, but because it was made with using millet and buckwheat (both of which are super healthy grains) instead of all-purpose flour. Even though there are many similar bread recipes out there on the Internet, I usually have a hard time figuring out where to start when it comes to baking bread using ancient grains.

But when she posted this recipe, I knew that it would be a good one to start with. Luckily as suspected, it didn’t disappoint. This bread is so easy to make, even for someone like me, who is learning her way around the world of vegan/gluten-free baking. It also is foolproof.

Ingredients for millet bread on a wooden board

To make it, in addition to millet and buckwheat Amy uses an ingredient called psyllium seed husk (or also called psyllium husk). The first time I read about psyllium husk was a year ago, when David and Luise of Green Kitchen Stories posted a recipe called Cashew Rawgurt. It was basically yogurt made with cashews instead of milk.

They used psyllium husk to give it a creamy consistency that was similar to the consistency of yogurt. But then, more and more I read about gluten-free and healthy baking ingredients, I realized that it is a much more of a common ingredient than I thought.

Ingredients for buckwheat bread on a wooden board

After some research and surfing through the Internet, I found out that psyllium husk (the photo above is what it looks like after it was mixed with water):

  • Is a natural source of soluble fiber that doesn’t include wheat, and therefore it is gluten-free.
  • Has multiple health benefits, because when mixed with liquids it turns into gel, which acts like a sponge and absorbs toxins in the digestive tract. Because of this reason, people with constipation and irregularity issues are advised to incorporate it into their diets.
  • Is used in gluten-free baking, because due to its gel-like structure (when mixed with water/liquida), it acts like gluten giving body to baked goods. It is mostly used when baking gluten-free bread, pizza dough, rolls, pasta, etc.
  • Is sold in the gluten-free baking section of the supermarkets as either in capsules or in powder form. (This recipe uses the powder form. In particularly, this brand.)

With all that being said, there are many resources on the Internet cautioning people as some allergic reactions to pysllium husk have been recorded. Therefore, if this is your first time consuming it, I recommend trying in a small dose before using it to bake bread.

You could also do what I did; simply add a tablespoon of it in a smoothie (another popular way of incorporating it into your diet) to see if you react to it in a negative way. Luckily, both my husband and I were totally fine after we drank our smoothies.

a woman is putting seasoning on top of the bread and the coring it with a knife

About This Millet Buckwheat Recipe

In her blog post, Amy posted a halved version of this recipe. However, she suggested that it would be fine to double it, which is what I did. To make the dough, you use a food processor. If you have a regular 9-cup food processor like mine, you may find that when all the ingredients are placed in it, it may look like it is too much. For this reason, on my first try I made two separate batches, mixed them in a bowl, and then baked them together.

But on my second try (which is the bread in the photos), I placed everything in the food processor at the same time. It was quite full, but I stopped every 8-10 seconds to scrape the bowl during the process to make sure that everything is mixing evenly. Either way, they both turned out nicely. So it is totally up to you and your preference. Also if you want, you can half the recipe for a smaller loaf.

Millet Buckwheat Bread cored from the top view

On a final note, it is imperative to score the bread twice- once before it goes into the oven and an additional time after it has been baking for 40 minutes. Doing so lets some air into the dough for it to cook properly. Since it is better to score it in the same place, I suggest sprinkling it with the seeds prior to scoring it for the first time. That way when it is time for you to score it again you can easily see the marks.

Sliced Millet and Buckwheat Bread from the top view

Other Gluten-Free Recipes You Might Be Interested In


Millet and Buckwheat Bread
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Millet and Buckwheat Bread

A vegan and gluten free Millet and Buckwheat Bread recipe made with buckwheat groats, millet, psyllium whole husk, rolled oats, chia seeds, and other superfood ingredients. The post and comments (from readers, who made this recipe) below includes several tips and tricks to make this healthy bread.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 8 slices (One 9X5 loaf of bread)
Calories 276kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup buckwheat groats
  • 1 cup millet
  • 3 cups filtered water
  • 1/2 cup psyllium whole husks (I used Yerba Prima brand) 1.5 oz.
  • 1 1/2 + 1 cups (9 oz.) rolled oats, divided (Gluten-free type)
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 4 tablespoons walnut coconut or olive oil would work too oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground flax seeds
  • 2 teaspoons chia seeds
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 teaspoons sunflower seeds

Instructions

  • Place buckwheat groats and millet in a large bowl. Pour enough water to cover at least 2 inches from the top. Allow it to soak for 10 hours or overnight.
  • Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9X5 loaf pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Drain the buckwheat and millet combination in a strainer. Rinse well and set aside. (Buckwheat will be slimy so it is important to wash it well.)
  • Place psyllium whole husks in a bowl and add the 3 cups of water. Mix and set aside. 5-10 minutes should be enough.
  • Place rinsed buckwheat groats, millet, and 1 1/2 cups oats in the bowl of a food processor. Process until completely combined and grains are almost completely broken down, 45-50 seconds. You may have to scrape the bowl 1 or 2 times.
  • Add in the soaked pysllium husks, rest of the oats, baking powder, sea salt, and oil in the bowl of a food processor. Process until everything is combined, 30-45 seconds. Make sure to stop and scrape the bowl a couple of times.
  • Transfer the dough into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it out using the back of a spatula.
  • Combine flax, chia, sesame, and sunflower seeds in a bowl.
  • Sprinkle half of the seeds on top of the bread. Using a sharp knife, score the top of the loaf in several places. (For a visual, see the photo above)
  • Sprinkle the rest of the seeds and place it in the pre-heated oven.
  • Bake for 40 minutes. Remove and re-cut the places you scored earlier to let some of the air in for the inside of the bread to fully bake. Return it to the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out slightly sticky.
  • Let it cool for 15 minutes on the kitchen counter and remove it from the pan.
  • Before slicing it, allow it to come to the room temperature.
  • You can store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Nutrition

Calories: 276kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 906mg | Potassium: 177mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 246mg | Iron: 2mg

This recipe is adapted from Amy Chaplin’s Gluten-Free Millet and Buckwheat recipe.


Millet and Buckwheat Bread
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How To Make Classic Zucchini Bread https://foolproofliving.com/zucchini-bread/ https://foolproofliving.com/zucchini-bread/#comments Sun, 13 Jul 2014 15:26:13 +0000 https://foolproofliving.com/?p=3748 I know we all have a go-to zucchini bread recipe. This one is mine. I have been making it for…]]>

I know we all have a go-to zucchini bread recipe. This one is mine. I have been making it for over 5 years since the first time I saw it in my favorite magazine, Cook’s Illustrated. It is easy to make and works every time.

Sliced Zucchini bread with walnuts and a cup of coffee on the side

How to prepare zucchini for bread

If this is your first time making a zucchini loaf, you are probably thinking, do I need to peel the zucchini to make zucchini bread? Well, the answer is no, especially if you are making it during the zucchini season.

You also do not need to take out the seeds. All you need to do is grate the zucchini using a box grater.

How much zucchini do I need for zucchini bread:

This quick bread recipe uses 1 ½ pounds of zucchini that yields about 2 ½ cups of shredded zucchini.

Shredding Zucchini for Zucchini Bread

To prepare the zucchini:

  • Cut the ends of zucchini
  • Shred it using the large hole section of a box grater
  • Place the now-shredded zucchini in the middle of a clean kitchen towel, gather the ends of the cloth, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. 
  • Set it aside.

Ingredients:

There are two sets of ingredients, wet and dry.

For the wet ingredients; gather brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

And for the dry ones, you will need all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.

A whole loaf of freshly baked zucchini loaf

How to Make Quick Zucchini Bread:

  1. Prep and grate the zucchini: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F, then grease and line a 9 by 5 or 8 ½ by 4 ½ loaf pan with parchment paper. Use the large holes of a box grater to grate the zucchini.
  2. Squeeze the zucchini: Place the shredded zucchini onto the center of a clean kitchen towel, collect it from the edges and wring out as much liquid as possible over a large bowl or the kitchen sink. Set it aside.
  3. Prep the wet ingredients: Whisk together the brown sugar vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Fold in the shredded zucchini.
  4. Prep the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.
  5. Prep the zucchini bread batter: Fold in the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Fold in the walnuts, if using.
  6. Bake: Pour the mixture into the loaf pan. Using the back of a spoon, distribute the batter equally. Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar on top of the batter. Bake for 70-75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let it cool & serve: Let it cool completely, slice it up, and serve.

What temperature to bake zucchini bread

I like my zucchini walnut loaf baked at 325 degrees F. I find that the lower heat and a longer bake time in the oven produces an evenly baked and moist quick bread in the end.

Variations & optional add ins for zucchini bread:

  • Nut Free Zucchini Bread: If you are not a fan of nuts, you can simply omit them. Walnuts are totally optional in this bread recipe.
  • Chocolate Chips on top: If you want to make this bread even more delicious (and chocolate-y), you sprinkle it with two tablespoons of chocolate chips.
  • Play the spices: I love ground cinnamon and nutmeg combo but sometimes I like to switch things up by swapping them with ground cardamom and ginger. I have also seen some recipes that use Chinese five-spice powder as well. Whichever spices you choose to experiment with I would recommend starting with half a teaspoon of spice and increase from there based on your taste buds.
A slice of Zucchini nut bread with a cup of coffee in the background

How to keep zucchini bread fresh

I find that the best way to keep it fresh is to either wrap it tightly with stretch film or place it in an airtight container after it is fully cooled down. This simple zucchini bread recipe will keep fresh at room temperature upto 3 days but you can also place it in the fridge for upto 5-6 days.

Can I freeze? 

You sure can. I recommend first slicing it and then wrapping each slice with wax or parchment paper individually. Once they are all wrapped up, place them in a plastic bag and get all the air out as much as possible (to prevent freezer burn).

To thaw: Take it out of the freezer, let it sit on the counter for 15-30 minutes and rewarm in a 300 degrees F oven for 10-15 minutes.

What is the best loaf pan for zucchini loaf:

My version here is a zucchini bread recipe for 9×5 pan. However, you can also use 8 ½ X 4 ½ pan as well.

Other quick zucchini bread recipes you might also like:

There you have it friends, a super moist, easy to make zucchini bread recipe that you can make for your family.

Sliced Vegan Zucchini Bread from the top view with grapes on the side
Sliced Healthy Zucchini bread with chocolate

With that being said, I know we all have different dietary restrictions so I wanted to make sure that I share the two other zucchini bread recipes I have on the blog:

  1. Vegan Zucchini Bread recipe: This version is made with flax eggs and whole wheat flour.
  2. Paleo Zucchini Bread recipe: This is my healthy zucchini bread recipe made with almond flour and sweetened with a little bit of coconut sugar.
Slices of classic zucchini bread on a plate
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Zucchini Bread

This is my go-to classic Zucchini Bread recipe. Packed with walnuts (an optional ingredient), shredded fresh zucchini, and a combination of whole wheat and all purpose flour, this is the best zucchini bread recipe you will ever make. It is super moist, mildly sweetened and packed with fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8 Slices
Calories 414kcal

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs. zucchini washed and shredded
  • 1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar, packed 8 (3/4 ounces)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 7 1/2 ounces
  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour 2 3/4 ounces
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon table salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Optional Add Ins

  • 3/4 cups walnuts chopped
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions

  • Pre-heat the oven to 325 degrees.
  • Spray a 9”by 5” loaf pan with vegetable spray.
  • Place shredded zucchini in the middle of a clean kitchen towel. Gather each end of the towel and squeeze tightly to drain as much liquid as possible from the zucchinis. It should be around half a cup of liquid. Discard the liquid. Place the zucchinis in a bowl and set aside.
  • Whisk together the brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Fold in the zucchinis.
  • In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.
  • Fold in the zucchini mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
  • Fold in the walnuts, if using.
  • Pour the mixture into the loaf pan. Using the back of a spoon, distribute the batter equally.
  • Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar (if using) on top of the batter.
  • Bake for 70-75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean (or with a couple of crumbs).
  • Allow it to cool for 30 minutes on a wire rack. Then remove it from the pan and let it come to room temperature completely before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 414kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 659mg | Potassium: 384mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 229IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 3mg

Adapted from Cook’s Illustrated Magazine’s June&July 2014 issue.

This post was originally published in July 2014. It has been updated in July 2020 with new information and no changes to the originally published recipe.

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