If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious low-carb option, this Protein Bread is perfect. Packed with protein from egg whites and whey protein powder, and using almond and coconut flour for a low-carb base, it’s versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply trying to reduce your carbohydrate intake, this bread is a great addition to your menu.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cultured cottage cheese
- 1 cup egg whites (about 8 large egg whites)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup unflavored whey protein powder
- 1 tablespoon psyllium husk powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of seeds (such as chia seeds or flaxseeds) for texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cultured cottage cheese and whisked egg whites. Mix until well combined and smooth. The cultured cottage cheese adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the bread.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, whey protein powder, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients provide structure and texture to the bread while keeping it low in carbohydrates.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a thick, sticky batter forms. The psyllium husk powder helps bind the ingredients and adds fiber to the bread.
5. Bake the Bread
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after 30 minutes.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps the bread set and slice more easily. Once cooled, slice the bread into thick slices and serve.
Cook’s Notes:
- Cottage Cheese: Opt for cultured cottage cheese for better flavor and texture. It adds moisture and a creamy consistency to the bread.
- Flours: Almond flour and coconut flour are used to keep the bread low-carb and gluten-free. They provide a nutty flavor and a light, airy texture.
- Protein Powder: Use unflavored whey protein powder to maintain a savory flavor profile. It boosts the protein content of the bread without adding carbohydrates.
- Psyllium Husk: This ingredient acts as a binder and helps absorb moisture, resulting in a softer texture. It also adds dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
- Optional Seeds: Adding chia seeds or flaxseeds not only enhances the nutritional value by adding omega-3 fatty acids and fiber but also provides a crunchy texture.
Variations:
- Cheese Bread: Mix in grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy version. Fold the cheese into the batter before baking for a savory twist.
- Herb Bread: Add dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning for a flavorful herb-infused bread. Herbs complement the savory flavors and add depth.
- Sweet Bread: For a sweet version, replace the salt with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol. Add cinnamon or vanilla extract to the batter for a delicious treat.
Keto Version:
To make this bread more keto-friendly, consider these adjustments:
- Increase the amount of almond flour and coconut flour slightly to adjust the texture and consistency.
- Reduce the amount of cottage cheese or omit it entirely, and increase the amount of egg whites for added moisture.
- Experiment with adding more protein powder or almond flour to achieve the desired texture without increasing the carbohydrate content.
This Low-Carb Protein Bread is a versatile and delicious option for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still enjoying bread-like texture and flavor. It’s ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter. With its high protein content and low-carb profile, it fits well into a keto lifestyle or any balanced diet. Give this recipe a try and customize it to suit your taste preferences — you won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own low-carb bread that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re following a specific diet plan or simply looking for healthier alternatives, this Protein Bread recipe delivers on flavor and texture without compromising on your dietary goals.
