Braided Carrot Bread
A visually appealing braided bread infused with sweet carrots and savory herbs, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a charming side for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Over low heat, heat milk, water, and oleo until hot (125°).
- Stir the heated mixture into the flour mixture containing flour, carrots, wheat germ, sugar, salt, savory, and yeast.
- Mix to form a soft dough and let rise for 10 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a 15-inch rope.
- Braid the three ropes together and place on a baking sheet.
- Let the braided dough rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375° for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier texture, consider substituting half of the wheat germ with oat bran. If you prefer a sweeter bread, add an extra tablespoon of sugar. You can also use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option. Ensure your liquids are at the right temperature to activate the RapidRise yeast effectively.
Serving Suggestions
This braided carrot bread is delightful on its own or served with a spread of cream cheese or butter. It pairs beautifully with a fresh Cucumber Salad Mold for a light lunch. Additionally, consider enjoying it alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover braided carrot bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braided Carrot Bread contains roughly 1925 calories, with 36g protein, 393g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (124% of the Daily Value), and potassium (103% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture. However, keep in mind that this may affect the overall rise of the bread. Whole wheat flour can also be increased for a denser, heartier bread.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer to check; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F.
Can I add nuts or seeds to the bread?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds can add a nice crunch and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the flour slightly if adding a significant amount 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).