Pancakes are a breakfast classic that can satisfy your hunger and sweet tooth. Traditional pancakes made with whole wheat flour or all purpose flour are indeed delicious, but for those of us who have to avoid gluten or wheat, almond flour can be a great alternative.
Almond flour provides a substantial amount of nutrients and flavor. Almond flour can be a great alternative for everyone, but especially those with wheat/gluten allergies, diabetes/other insulin-related health conditions, and those who are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals.
Almond flour has considerably less carbohydrates than traditional all-purpose flour, giving it a lower glycemic index rating (lower GI ratings = slower increase in blood sugar). While 100 grams of wheat flour contains about 76 grams of carbohydrates, 100 grams of almond flour contains roughly 21 grams of carbohydrates. Fat, fiber, and protein differences between almond flour and all-purpose flour make almond flour a great choice for those who are looking for something to hold them over for longer. 100 grams of almond flour contains about 50 grams of fat, 11 grams of fiber, and 21 grams of protein. 100 grams of all-purpose flour contains about, 1 gram of fat, 2.7 grams of fiber, and 10 grams of protein.
Another added bonus of almond flour is that is is rather sweet tasting on its own, making it to where recipes containing it call for little to often no added sugar. Per 100 grams of almond flour there is about 3.6 grams of sugar. This particular pancake recipe does not call for any added sugar as I think that between the flour itself and the ingredients/toppings there is more than enough sweetness!
Almond flour contains substantial amounts of vitamin E, magnesium, iron, calcium and many other vitamins and minerals, making it a great way to get many essential nutrients. Almond flour also contains great amounts of monounsaturated fats which have been shown to promote and maintain heart health.
If you are like me, you like to know that the foods that you love also provide your body with more than just empty calories.
For more nutrition facts on almond flour check out the USDA’s My Food Data site:
I love to use almond flour for the fact that it provides a great taste and texture to the recipes that it is used in. If you are like me, you also love Costco. Costco usually carries their own brand of blanched almond flour that is a great deal for how much you get! All-purpose flour alternatives tend to be a bit pricey so anytime I can find a good deal I am always excited!
I have found that almond flour takes some experience to cook and bake with. There is definitely not a 1:1 ratio when it comes to recipe conversions. I have found that less sugar is best because the almonds are already naturally sweet. Extra eggs and baking powder can be good additions as they can help to bind things together in the absence of gluten.
** Baking SODA is listed in the recipe but I use baking POWDER.**
Intuitive Health & Living 