A soft, hearty homemade loaf that fits right into your Slimming World plan — wholesome, simple, and deeply satisfying.
Recipe Card
Servings: 12 slices (1 standard 2lb loaf)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Dietary Badges: Low Syn | Vegetarian | Healthy Extra B Option
Ingredients (Checklist Format)
- Wholemeal strong bread flour
- Warm water
- Active dry yeast
- Pinch of salt
- Sweetener or sugar (optional, helps yeast activate)
- Fat-free natural yogurt (for softness)
- Low-calorie cooking spray (for greasing)
Instructions
-
Activate Yeast:
Mix warm water (about 250ml) with 2 tsp of active dry yeast and a small pinch of sweetener or sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy. -
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add 400g wholemeal bread flour and 1 tsp salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and 2 tbsp fat-free natural yogurt. -
Knead the Dough:
Mix to form a soft dough, then knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a touch more flour if sticky. -
First Rise:
Lightly spray a clean bowl with low-calorie spray, place dough inside, and cover with cling film or a damp towel. Let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size. -
Shape and Second Rise:
Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased 2lb loaf tin. Cover again and let rise for 30–45 minutes. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath. -
Cool:
Remove from tin and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Additional Notes
- Use a digital kitchen scale for accuracy.
- To stay on plan, count one slice (approx. 1/12 of loaf) as your Healthy Extra B choice.
- Great for toasting or sandwiches — light, soft, and high in fibre.
Introduction
Homemade bread doesn’t have to mean breaking your Slimming World goals. This simple wholemeal loaf delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavour — crusty on the outside, soft and fluffy inside — while keeping things light and healthy. It’s ideal for those who love the comfort of warm, fresh bread but want to stay in control of their daily syns.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Making the Dough
Mix warm water with yeast and sweetener until it bubbles. Combine flour, salt, and yogurt, then pour in the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon before kneading until smooth.
Tip: If your dough feels dry, add 1–2 tbsp more warm water.
First Rise
Place in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled.
Tip: If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl inside the (turned-off) oven with the light on to create a cozy proofing space.
Shaping & Baking
Once risen, shape and transfer to your loaf tin. Let it puff up again before baking. Bake until golden — your kitchen will smell incredible.
Tip: If the crust browns too fast, cover loosely with foil halfway through.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
- Wholemeal Bread Flour: High in fibre and perfect for your Healthy Extra B allowance.
- Yeast: Instant yeast also works — skip activation step if using.
- Yogurt: Adds moisture without fat; fat-free Greek yogurt is a fine swap.
- Sweetener: Optional, but helps yeast work faster.
- No Flour? You can substitute 50% with wholegrain spelt flour for a nuttier texture.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Oat Blend Loaf: Replace 50g flour with blended oats for an extra fibre boost.
- Seeded Version: Mix 2 tbsp sunflower or flax seeds into the dough before the final rise.
- Herbed Bread: Add 1 tsp dried rosemary or oregano for a savoury touch.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with light butter spray, poached eggs, or make a Slimming World–friendly grilled cheese using low-fat cheese allowance. Perfect alongside soups and stews.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Slice and freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Toast straight from frozen.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Dough can be made the night before and left to rise in the fridge overnight.
- Shelf Life Note: Best texture within 48 hours of baking.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)
Calories: 115 kcal
Carbs: 21g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 3g
Allergens: Contains gluten, dairy (from yogurt).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use white flour instead?
A: Yes, but it will no longer count as a Healthy Extra B option.
Q: My bread didn’t rise — why?
A: Your yeast might be expired or the water too hot (which kills yeast). Aim for warm, not hot.
Q: Can I bake this without a loaf tin?
A: Yes — shape into a round loaf and bake on a lined tray; reduce baking time by 5 minutes.
Q: Is this bread really Slimming World–friendly?
A: Yes. When portioned correctly, one slice can fit your Healthy Extra B allowance.
The Story Behind the Recipe
I created this loaf during my first Slimming World journey — frustrated with store-bought “diet bread” that tasted like cardboard. After a few experiments (and several dense bricks), this version finally struck the perfect balance: light, soft, and 100% plan-friendly. It’s become a weekend ritual in my kitchen, especially when I crave something comforting but still on track.
Reader Interaction and Call-to-Action
I’d love to hear how your loaf turns out! Share your results or variations in the comments — whether you added seeds, herbs, or made mini rolls.
If you try this Slimming World bread, tag it on social media or leave a quick review to help others find it too.
