Low Fat Coconut Friand
I made this low fat variation by accident by forgetting to add the butter I'd melted in the microwave. While not as light as real friands they are a tasty alternative if you want something sweet without the motherload.
I made this low fat variation by accident by forgetting to add the butter I'd melted in the microwave. While not as light as real friands they are a tasty alternative if you want something sweet without the motherload.
- Carbohydrate 12.6856885448921 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.98677916670809 g
- Fiber 1.49441664193993 g
- Protein 4.11801458376996 g
- Saturated Fat 1.23910916667322 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Recipe (40g)
- Sodium 37.7519791667512 mg
- Sugar 11.1912719029522 g
- Trans Fat 0.260684583347071 g
- Calories 108 calories
Step-by-step
- Pre-heat oven to 200 C (reduce heat if fan forced). Grease friand pan.
- Whisk the egg whites until frothy on top.
- Add the icing sugar, almond meal, flour, lemon rind, lemon juice and dessicated coconut. Stir to combine.
- Spoon evenly into friand pan. Sprinkle with flaked coconut.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Rest for 5 minutes in the pan before turning out to cool on a wire rack.
My Accidental Low-Fat Coconut Friand Discovery
As a busy working mom, finding time to bake is a luxury. I often rely on quick, easy recipes that satisfy my sweet tooth without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe, however, was entirely unplanned – a happy accident, really. I was in a rush to make some friands for a school bake sale, and in my haste, I completely forgot to add the melted butter to the batter. I was already committed, so I decided to bake them anyway, holding my breath, hoping for the best. The result? Surprisingly delicious low-fat coconut friands!
They weren't exactly the same as the original, richer version. They lacked that melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture. But honestly? The slightly drier texture was preferable, especially for a mid-morning snack. These friands are perfectly delightful – still sweet and satisfying, but with a delightful lightness. And the best part? This accidental omission resulted in a healthier treat, perfect for those of us watching our calorie intake. It was such a welcome surprise, almost like discovering a hidden treasure.
The almond meal provides a lovely nutty flavour, complementing the coconut perfectly. The fresh lemon zest adds a bright, zesty note, preventing the sweetness from becoming cloying. The slight crispiness on the outside and the moist, tender crumb on the inside create a delicious textural contrast. These friands are easily adaptable, too. Feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, or add some chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Since that initial accidental baking, these low-fat coconut friands have become a regular in my baking repertoire. They are perfect for breakfast, a quick afternoon treat, or even a light dessert. I've made variations – adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. The possibilities are truly endless.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. With minimal ingredients and a quick baking time, they're a great choice for busy individuals or anyone who wants a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional friands. Plus, the added bonus of accidentally stumbling upon a healthier version makes them even more appealing. Next time you find yourself accidentally omitting an ingredient, don’t panic! You might just discover your new favourite treat. This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unexpected moments in the kitchen can lead to the most delightful discoveries.
So, if you're looking for a light, delicious, and guilt-free sweet treat, give these low-fat coconut friands a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tip: For an even richer coconut flavor, use full-fat coconut milk instead of water in the batter (though this will slightly increase the fat content).
I've shared this recipe with my friends and family, and they've all been impressed by how simple and delicious these low-fat coconut friands are. Even the most discerning palates can't resist their charm. The unexpected lightness and the perfect balance of sweet and zesty make them a real crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this is a recipe that will become a favourite in your kitchen, too. Give it a try, and you'll soon see why!
