Betty'S Brown Bread
Betty's Brown Bread is a hearty, flavorful loaf combining the sweetness of molasses and raisins with the wholesome richness of graham and all-purpose flours. Its dense texture and warm spices make it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside hearty meals, appealing to bread lovers seeking a rustic, homemade taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 4 cups of flour with the dry ingredients, including baking powder, salt, and soda.
- Add the raisins and mix them with your fingers to separate them.
- Add buttermilk and mix with a fork until the mixture forms a dough.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour on a surface, turn out the dough, and knead it for about 5 minutes.
- Form the dough into a smooth, round loaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister bread, consider adding a tablespoon of melted butter or oil to the dough. If you don't have graham flour, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a similar flavor. Ensure the milk is at room temperature before mixing to help activate the baking powder. For a twist, try incorporating chopped nuts or using honey instead of molasses.
Serving Suggestions
This brown bread pairs beautifully with butter and honey for a delightful breakfast. Serve it alongside soups or stews for a comforting meal, or enjoy it with a spread of cream cheese and fruit preserves for a snack. It also complements dishes like Chili-Cheese Corn Bread for a hearty brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and toast in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Brown Bread contains roughly 1473 calories, with 40g protein, 270g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (179% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (175% of the Daily Value), and calcium (119% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, using all whole wheat may result in a denser bread, so consider combining it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The bread should also have a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the dough for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the flour slightly if adding extra ingredients to maintain the dough's consistency.
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).