Aunt Lydia'S Molasses Bread
A rich, sweet molasses bread with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to those who love warm, spiced baked treats with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, butter, molasses, and beaten eggs in a mixing bowl.
- Add self-rising flour and milk alternately to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. You can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. If you don't have self-rising flour, mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour with 4.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Lydia's Molasses Bread warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a delightful dessert, enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or try it with a slice of Pineapple And Cream Cake for a sweet treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molasses bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or microwave, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lydia'S Molasses Bread contains roughly 518 calories, with 8g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic the properties of self-rising flour.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free molasses bread, substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help maintain the texture and rise of the bread. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the bread?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth and depth. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add a delightful crunch. You could also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).