I'm not sure what it is about bread that makes it so scrumptious [1] and addicting, but I'm a bread-lover through and through. No matter how many times I've tried to go cold turkey or slowly cut back (I've given bread up for Lent for three years now), I always seem to break the cycle. More recently, I've come to learn that it isn't so much of about removing bread from your diet, but rather finding healthy substitutes [2] or recipes. And there are a lot out there! To help myself and my fellow bread-lovers out, I've compiled a list of healthy alternatives that still constitute as bread, but are packed with better nutrients. Hey, I love a savory low-carb loaf [3]. These recipes range from Paleo to keto-approved [4], to even including gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free ingredients; plus much more. Happy snacking!
Vegan Banana Apple Chunk Bread
This vegan-friendly bread comes in at only 147 calories per slice! Plus, it's lower in fat; uses whole-wheat flour; and unlike traditional loafs, it doesn't require much sugar because of the fruit's natural sugars.
Get the recipe: vegan banana apple chunk bread [5]
Bran Muffins
I don't know if the best part of this recipe is all the nutritious ingredients or that the prep and cook time can easily be completed in under 30 minutes! These individually sized muffins are high in protein and fiber, making them the perfect on-the-go snack.
Get the recipe: bran muffins [6]
Everything Bagel Almond Flour Bread
Satisfy your bagel craving with this low-carb recipe. The garlic and onion seasoned loaf is made with almond flour, and additionally, it's gluten free and Paleo!
Get the recipe: everything bagel almond flour bread [7]
Grilled Flatbreads Stuffed With Herbs and Cheese
While flatbreads tend to rank low in calories and fat, they sometimes don't hold all the flavor of a typical loaf. Stuffed with herbs and cheese, this no-yeast recipe is a game changer. It's also substitution-friendly; if you prefer no cheese, easily swap for another ingredient.
Get the recipe: grilled flatbreads stuffed with herbs and cheese [8]
Chocolate Chip Protein-Packed Pumpkin Bread
Think of this recipe as a Halo Top-meets-bread combo. The recipe includes half the amount of sugar of a typical recipe with over twice the protein! The trick? Replacing parts of the flour with protein powder. It's yummy, simple, and dairy-free and egg-free.
Get the recipe: chocolate chip protein-packed pumpkin bread [9]
Whole Wheat Carrot Bread
This loaf recipe holds all the same flavors as a typical carrot bread while secretly swapping out for more natural ingredients like whole-wheat flour, coconut oil, and coconut sugar. The recipe even includes a substitute for buttermilk!
Get the recipe: whole wheat carrot bread [10]
Savory Cracklin' Cornbread
I honestly didn't think a sugar-free or dairy-free cornbread could exist, but here we are. This recipe will bring a little Southern comfort to your dinner table while still classifying as healthy. Each serving is only 194 calories, and you don't need a cast-iron skillet to make it!
Get the recipe: savory cracklin' cornbread [11]