Diet Bread
A light and wholesome homemade bread with a soft texture and mild flavor, perfect for sandwiches or toast, suitable for those seeking a healthier bread option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften dry yeast in warm water.
- In a saucepan, warm low sodium milk; stir in sugar and unsalted shortening.
- Add the yeast mixture to the milk mixture and mix well.
- Work in flour until a dough forms. Shape into a ball and place in a greased bowl.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and shape it to fit into greased 9 x 4 x 3-inch loaf pans.
- Cover and let rise again for about 1 hour.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the best rise, make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm water. If you're out of unsalted shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, if the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Diet Bread is versatile and pairs beautifully with soups or salads for a light meal. It can also be used for sandwiches, making it a great choice for lunch. Try it with a spread of avocado or hummus for a nutritious boost. For a sweet twist, serve it with a side of Stirred Rice Pudding for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Diet Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diet Bread contains roughly 796 calories, with 10g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser loaf. It's often best to use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture while still adding nutrition.
How can I tell if the bread is fully baked?
To check if the bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Additionally, the crust should be golden brown. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).
What can I add to the dough for flavor?
You can enhance the flavor of your Diet Bread by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices such as garlic powder. Adding a tablespoon of honey or molasses can also provide a subtle sweetness. Experiment with different ingredients to discover your favorite combination!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).