Bran Bread
Bran Bread offers a hearty, wholesome loaf with a rich, slightly sweet flavor from molasses. Its dense texture makes it perfect for breakfast or snacks. Suitable for those seeking fiber-rich, homemade bread with a nostalgic taste and nourishing qualities.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the All-Bran with 2 cups boiling water and let it soften.
- In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in 1/4 cup warm water and let it activate.
- Combine the softened All-Bran mixture, yeast mixture, oleo, molasses, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Mix well.
- Gradually add remaining flour until the dough is stiff but workable.
- Knead the dough thoroughly until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three greased pans.
- Let the dough rise again until doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. If you're short on time, substitute the oleo with melted butter or coconut oil. You can also use honey instead of molasses for a different sweetness profile. Make sure your water is not too hot when activating the yeast, as it can kill the yeast. This recipe is a great way to explore American recipes that focus on wholesome ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Bran bread is delicious served warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a hearty soup, like Stone Soup, or as a base for sandwiches. For a sweet twist, try toasting it and adding jam or honey. It also complements breakfast dishes well, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bran Bread contains roughly 79 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% 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 white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser bread. Start with 3 cups of whole wheat flour and adjust as needed, adding more to achieve a workable dough. Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and increase the fiber content.
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 a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C). If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make the bran bread vegan, replace the oleo with a plant-based margarine and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of molasses. Ensure that your yeast is also vegan-friendly, which most store-bought varieties are. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan bread without compromising on flavor.
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).