Discover a delightful and nourishing Sprouted Wheat and Carrot Loaf, perfect for anyone exploring healthy bread recipes. This simple guide will show you how to create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s both wholesome and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic bread that fits right into your healthy eating goals.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Sprouted Whole Wheat Flour: For enhanced nutrition and easier digestion. You can use regular whole wheat flour if sprouted is unavailable.
- Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. Agave nectar also works.
- Plain Yogurt or Buttermilk: Contributes to a tender crumb. Dairy-free plain yogurt can be substituted.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups sprouted whole wheat flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups grated carrots
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 (without optional add-ins)
- Tools Needed: 9×5 inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, grater
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your healthy bread recipes turn out perfectly without sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the sprouted whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined for even distribution in your loaf.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt (or buttermilk), honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, which you want to avoid in healthy bread recipes.
5. Fold in Carrots and Optional Add-ins
Gently fold in the grated carrots and any optional add-ins like nuts or dried fruit. Ensure the carrots are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake Your Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing it too soon might cause it to crumble. Enjoy your delicious and healthy bread!
Variation Ideas:
- Spiced Citrus Loaf: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter for a bright flavor.
- Seed Power Loaf: Mix in ¼ cup of mixed seeds (such as flax, chia, or sunflower seeds) for added crunch and nutrients.
- Chocolate Chip Carrot Loaf: Fold in ½ cup of mini dark chocolate chips for a treat.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Sprouted Wheat and Carrot Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices individually for quick breakfasts; just thaw at room temperature or toast lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can you use only whole wheat flour? Yes, you can use 2 cups of 100% sprouted whole wheat flour, but the texture might be slightly denser.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains wheat flour. For a gluten-free version, you would need to use a blend of gluten-free flours.
- Can you reduce the sugar? You can slightly reduce the honey or maple syrup by a quarter, but this may affect the moisture and sweetness.
- What if you don’t have applesauce? You can substitute it with an equal amount of mashed banana or more plain yogurt.
- How do you know when it’s perfectly baked? A wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Can you make this into muffins? Yes, divide the batter into a 12-cup muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
