Spelt is an ancient form of wheat that was developed in the Mediterranean within the fertile crescent before thousands of years ago. Spread to southern Europe through trade, it almost disappeared in the 19th century due introduction of modern wheat varieties. Held in high regard in Germany (knonw as dinkel) and Italy (known as farro), it’s become popular in the real food movement. It’s much higher in protein than ordinary wheat and many find it easier to digest (note: it still contains gluten, albeit at a lower amount).
Find all of our favorite spelt-based recipes below!
Curious about soaking whole grain flour? This baking technique makes the flour more digestible and results in moist, tender baked goods. Our recipe for soaked spelt flour berry muffins with a spiced crumble topping is an easy place to start if you want to learn more. Get the recipe now.
Poulet saute a la paysanne Provencale is a deliciously simple peasant-style sauteed chicken dish that you can make at home. The recipe comes from Provence, and with the first bite of this savory braised poultry, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the French countryside. Read more now to get the recipe.
Made with whole grain spelt flour, these Belgian waffles are more nutritious than ones made with refined flour, yet perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Whipped egg whites and tangy buttermilk keep them light and airy. Read more now to add this recipe to your collection of breakfast favorites.
Homemade pasta gets a rustic and nutritious makeover with this basil and ricotta-filled spelt ravioli. Even if you don’t have a pasta roller or ravioli molds, you can still treat your family to this impressive pasta dish. Read more now on Foodal to get the recipe, with step-by-step instructions and sauce ideas.
Drizzled with a simple glaze, the ultimate cookies ‘n’ cream spelt cookies are rich, chocolatey, and melt-in-your-mouth soft and fudgy. Made with cocoa powder and chopped dark chocolate, you’d never guess that they also contain whole grain spelt flour! Get the recipe now so you can bake up a batch tonight.
You’ve had your fun with making traditional pie crusts. Let’s try something new for your next round of baking. This all-butter whole grain spelt pie crust has a delicate, flaky texture from the butter and a nutty flavor from the whole grain spelt flour. It’s a recipe that will be perfect with any filling. Read more.
If you’re looking for the ideal baked goodie, these spelt walnut dark chocolate chip cookies are where it’s at. Crisp edges and soft centers with gooey chocolate dotted throughout make this cookie a clear favorite, and the sprinkle of salt on top brings incredible contrast. Plus, they’re vegan! Get the recipe now.
Made with a homemade kefir and spelt crust, peach, spinach, and goat cheese pizza is a tangy, sweet combination that’s perfect for your next vegetarian meal. It takes mere minutes to prepare, and when the pizza comes out of the oven, it will fill your nose with irresistible fresh and fruity notes. Get the recipe now.
Easy kefir-soaked spelt pizza crust is a simple whole grain dough that comes together quite easily, and is definitely worth the wait. Change up your normal routine when you make pizza at home by incorporating this ancient grain for a bold flavor and fluffy texture. Top it with whatever you like. Get the recipe now.
Buttery, nutty, and crisp, spiced spelt flour almond wafers are the perfect small treat for fall. With each crunchy bite, enjoy a lovely mix of spices and a subtle depth of flavor from the spelt flour and unrefined sugars. Serve them with any hot fall beverage, like a cappuccino, apple cider, or a hot toddy. Read more.
For a dessert that will never fail, try our foolproof cheesecake with a pecan crust. This gorgeous and creamy sweet treat is a surefire win that will change everything you thought you knew about making homemade cheesecake. The texture, flavor, and the drizzle of dark chocolate on top are pure magic. Get the recipe now.
Looking for some comfort food vibes using fresh summer ingredients? Make this savory spelt flour tart recipe. Whole fresh tomatoes, thin slices of nutty, aged Gouda, and caramelized onions are all roasted together. For the finishing touches, we add basil, flaky sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Read more now.