Easy Fat-Free and Low-Sugar Tea Loaf Recipe
If you’re craving a sweet treat but want to keep things light and healthy, this fat-free, low-sugar tea loaf is a perfect choice. It’s moist, flavorful, and ideal for a light snack or to enjoy with a hot cup of tea. Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or use all-purpose flour for a lighter texture)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (for moisture without fat)
- 1/2 cup stevia or your preferred low-calorie sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or almonds)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the loaf.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, stevia (or your preferred sweetener), egg, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the loaf dense.
- Add Raisins or Nuts:
- If you’re using raisins or dried cranberries, fold them into the batter along with the chopped nuts (if desired) for added flavor and texture.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve with a cup of tea for a light, satisfying treat!
Tips and Variations:
- Add-ins: You can swap raisins for sultanas or dates, or use chopped fresh fruit like bananas or apples for added flavor and moisture.
- Flavor Boost: For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter to brighten the flavor.
- Storage: Store the tea loaf in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.
Serving Size:
This recipe makes 8 slices of tea loaf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
- A: Yes! If you prefer a lighter texture, feel free to swap whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Just note that the loaf may be a little less dense, but still delicious!
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
- A: Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) or another egg replacer. You can also use plant-based milk like oat milk or coconut milk in place of almond milk.
Q: Can I add other fruits to the loaf?
- A: Yes, you can incorporate other fruits like mashed bananas, chopped apples, or berries into the batter for added moisture and flavor. Just adjust the baking time slightly if needed, as fruit can affect the texture.
Q: How can I make this loaf sweeter?
- A: If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can increase the amount of stevia or use another natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Be mindful of the amount of liquid you add when using liquid sweeteners.
Q: How do I know when the loaf is done?
- A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it’s done. If it comes out wet with batter, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes and check again.
Q: Can I freeze the tea loaf?
- A: Yes! You can freeze slices of the tea loaf. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion:
This Easy Fat-Free and Low-Sugar Tea Loaf is a healthier alternative to traditional tea cakes, offering a moist, flavorful treat with minimal sugar and no fat. Perfect for a light snack or a dessert to pair with your favorite beverage, this recipe is a great way to indulge in something sweet without the guilt. Enjoy a slice of this light, satisfying loaf whenever you need a treat that’s both delicious and nutritious!