Trina Krug, MS, CDSP | Associated Press
As fall approaches and the air becomes crisp, it’s the perfect time to indulge in baking. The comforting aroma of freshly baked goods is a seasonal delight but many traditional recipes are laden with sugar, refined flour and unhealthy fats. Health-conscious bakers can enjoy their favorite fall treats without compromising on nutrition by making a few smart ingredient swaps.
Baking with healthier ingredients doesn’t just mean you’re cutting calories or reducing sugar. Swapping out traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives can also cater to various dietary needs. Whether you’re gluten free, lactose intolerant or simply looking to reduce your sugar intake, there are plenty of options that allow you to enjoy baking. Healthy baking can still be delicious and satisfying and it often brings out new and exciting flavors in your favorite recipes.
Nut flour instead of white flour
White flour, a staple in many baking recipes, is highly processed and stripped of most nutrients. Swapping it out for nut flours can significantly boost the nutritional profile and even the taste of your baked goods. Using nut flour not only makes your treats gluten-free but also adds a delightful nutty flavor. Most nut flours are best used with other flours to avoid the wrong texture.
Natural sweeteners over refined sugar
Refined sugar is a common ingredient in baking but offers no nutritional benefits. Natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup and even coconut sugar are excellent substitutes. Honey and maple syrup not only sweeten your baked goods but also add unique flavors.
When using honey or maple syrup, remember that they are liquid sweeteners. To maintain the right consistency, you may need to slightly reduce the amount of other liquids in your recipe. Generally, you can replace 1 cup of white sugar with 3/4 cup of honey or maple syrup. Coconut sugar, on the other hand, can be used in a 1:1 ratio with white sugar.
Fat alternatives
Butter and…
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