When we think about baking, a few words come to mind; comforting, delicious and guilt-provoking. We all love the taste of baked goods and that warm fuzzy feeling you get while enjoying them. Thinking about all of the calories that were just consumed is unfortunately a different story, however. With just a little bit of substitution in your baking, you will be able to enjoy your desserts guilt-free and avoid packing on the pounds, especially with the holiday season very close by. In light of that fact, here are a few healthy baking tips to avoid extra calories without losing any of the flavor from your baked goods.
Instead of using fats like butter, vegetable oil or lard (hopefully no one is still using that), try baking with applesauce or a fruit puree. Get creative with the flavor of fruit puree or applesauce that you try. Fruit puree and applesauce are very low in calories, but they will still add the much needed taste and create the texture that fats usually do. If using applesauce, just go with the measurement that was required of the fat in your recipe. For instance, if your recipe called for one cup of oil, use one cup of applesauce.
If you are baking your desserts from scratch and your recipe calls for milk, try using soy or rice milk instead. Soy milk is less in fat than whole cow's milk but has more fat than two percent cow's milk. In addition soy milk is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, and it has no cholesterol.
Another baking tip that will make your desserts healthier would be to replace your eggs with silken tofu, pureed. For every egg that your recipe needs, use one fourth of a cup of the tofu. Tofu is a great source of calcium and vitamin E, and it is low in saturated fats. Making a few simple substitutions to your baking can make it healthier, and sometimes it will taste better as well.
 | If you are new to baking recipes, it is important not only to read up on measurements and baking cookware but it is also equally important to practice your craft. Baking is like any sport or hobby: The more you do it, the better you will become. |
 | Learning how to bake can be a daunting process, but it does not have to reduce a grown adult to tears. The key is to know the basics of baking before you dive in. |
 | With so many types of flour to choose from, such as spelt flour, soy flour, quinoa flour, rice flour, organic bread flour and even gluten-free flour, your head may begin to spin. If you want your recipe to be a success, you'll need to understand what each type does and whether it's right for your recipe's need. |
 | Whether you're a novice baker or a well-seasoned pro, you'll want to stock your kitchen with essential baking supplies. Start with the basics: measuring tool, mixing equipment and a varied assortment of quality bakeware for the goods you bake the most. |
The word "soufflé" strikes fear in the hearts of both professional chefs and home cooks. Fortunately for anyone who desires to attempt a soufflé, they are not nearly as difficult as many people would have you believe. |
