Baking with Spelt Flour: Delicious and Healthier Recipe Ideas

In the world of baking, exploring alternative flours can lead to delightful culinary discoveries. One such flour that has been gaining popularity in recent years is spelt flour. Derived from an ancient grain, spelt flour offers a unique flavor, nutritional benefits, and a versatility that adds a wholesome touch to your baked goods. In this post, we'll explore the world of baking with spelt flour, going over its health advantages, how to use it in recipes, and a variety of mouthwatering and healthier recipe suggestions that will up your baking game.

The Nutritional Benefits of Spelt Flour

Spelt flour, derived from the grain known as Triticum spelta, is a distant relative of modern wheat. While it does contain gluten, some individuals with mild wheat sensitivities find it easier to digest compared to traditional wheat flour. Spelt flour is a nutrient powerhouse, providing essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being. It is rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, niacin, and copper. These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions and contribute to a balanced and nourishing diet. Incorporating spelt flour into your recipes allows you to enjoy its nutritional benefits while indulging in delicious baked goods.

The Benefits of Using Spelt Flour in Baking

1. Distinct Flavor: Spelt flour has a nuttier and slightly sweeter taste compared to traditional wheat flour, which adds depth to your baked goods. This unique flavor can enhance the overall taste profile of your recipes, making them more interesting and enjoyable.
2. Nutritional Boost: By incorporating spelt flour into your baking, you can add a nutritional boost to your creations. Spelt flour offers a higher protein and fiber content compared to all-purpose flour. This nutritional profile contributes to a greater feeling of satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer periods. The high fiber content also aids in regulating blood sugar levels, promoting better glycemic control. By incorporating spelt flour into your baking, you can enjoy baked goods that not only taste delicious but also support your overall well-being.
3. Easier Digestion: Some individuals with mild wheat sensitivities or intolerances find spelt flour easier to digest. This can be attributed to the differences in gluten structure between spelt and wheat flour. However, it's crucial to highlight that spelt contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies. While spelt may be tolerated by some individuals with mild wheat sensitivities, it's always essential to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before incorporating spelt flour into your diet if you have gluten-related disorders. There are other gluten-free alternatives available for individuals who need to strictly avoid gluten.

Tips for Baking with Spelt Flour

1. Substituting Spelt Flour: When substituting spelt flour for all-purpose flour in your recipes, it's important to note that the gluten content in spelt is different from wheat flour. Spelt flour has a delicate gluten structure, which can impact the texture of baked goods. It is recommended to start by substituting only a portion of the all-purpose flour with spelt flour, gradually increasing the ratio as you become more familiar with its properties.
2. Texture and Moisture: Due to the fact that spelt flour tends to absorb more liquid than all-purpose flour, you may need to modify the amount of moisture in your recipes. Your baked goods' texture and wetness can be maintained by adding a little bit additional liquid or fat, such butter or oil.
3. Blending with Other Flours: Experimenting with a blend of spelt flour and other alternative flours can enhance the texture and flavor of your baked goods. Combining spelt flour with almond flour, coconut flour, or whole wheat flour can result in delightful creations that are both nutritious and delicious.

Healthier Recipe Ideas with Spelt Flour

Spelt Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups spelt flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Grease a loaf pan and set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the spelt flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a big bowl.
3. Combine the eggs, vanilla essence, mashed bananas, heated coconut oil or vegetable oil, honey or maple syrup, and in a separate bowl.
4. Mix the dry ingredients briefly after adding the liquid components. Add the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if you like.
5. Spoon the batter into the loaf pan that has been prepared and smooth the top.
6. Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
7. Let the banana bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Spelt Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cups spelt flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, rolled oats, coconut sugar or brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil or vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the blueberries.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Spelt Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cups spelt flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil or unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine the spelt flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Combine the softened coconut oil or butter, coconut sugar or brown sugar, and maple syrup or honey in a separate, big bowl and beat until frothy.
4. Continue beating after adding the egg and vanilla essence.
5. Stirring until just blended, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet components. Add the dark chocolate chips by blending.
6. Place rounded tablespoonfuls of dough, spaced about 2 inches apart, onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking withspelt flour opens up a world of possibilities for creating delicious and healthier treats. With its unique flavor, nutritional benefits, and versatility, spelt flour adds a wholesome touch to your baked goods. By substituting traditional flours with spelt flour in your recipes, you can enjoy the nutty taste and reap the nutritional advantages it offers. Whether it's in banana bread, muffins, or chocolate chip cookies, spelt flour adds a delightful twist to your baking creations.

Remember to start with smaller substitutions of spelt flour and gradually increase the ratio as you become familiar with its properties. Adjusting the moisture content may be necessary due to spelt flour's tendency to absorb more liquid. Blending spelt flour with other alternative flours can also enhance the texture and flavor of your baked goods.

Explore the world of baking with spelt flour and enjoy the wholesome and delicious results. Let your creativity soar as you experiment with different recipes and variations. Embrace the nutty flavor, the nutritional benefits, and the rich history of this ancient grain. With spelt flour as your baking companion, you can indulge in delightful treats while nourishing your body with wholesome goodness. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a flavorful journey with spelt flour. Happy baking!

❤ Try our USDA certified organic Spelt Wheat Berries ❤

Related Recipes