Brown Bread

Prep: 480 min Cook: 60 min

A hearty and flavorful brown bread packed with raisins and nuts, perfect for breakfast or tea time. Its moist texture and sweet, nutty taste make it a delightful treat for both kids and adults, offering a comforting homemade option that pairs well with butter or jam.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. raisins
  • 2 tsp. soda
  • 2 c. hot water
  • 1 1/2 c. white sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. margarine
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 4 c. flour
  • 1 c. nuts
  • 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

  1. Soak raisins in hot water and soda overnight.
  2. In the morning, add remaining ingredients in order as listed to the raisin mixture.
  3. Grease two 8 x 5-inch loaf pans.
  4. Bake for 1 hour in a 350°F oven.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the white sugar with honey or maple syrup. You can also replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a more robust texture. Ensure the raisins are well-soaked to keep the bread moist. If you want to add a twist, try mixing in some chopped dried fruit or chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

Brown bread makes a delightful breakfast or snack option. Serve it warm with butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with Easy Mints for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider enjoying it alongside soups or stews. You can also slice it thinly and use it for sandwiches, adding layers of your favorite deli meats or cheeses.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover brown bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice off a piece and warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it for a crispy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Brown Bread contains roughly 2822 calories, with 13g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 201g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2555mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).

2822 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.8g 26% DV
Total Fat 200.7g 100% DV
Carbs 181.4g 66% DV
Fiber 4.5g 16% DV
Sugar 80.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2554.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 659.6mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 28.1mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 59.2mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 144mg 11% DV
Iron 5.6mg 31% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 half of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just be aware that the texture may be denser, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this brown bread gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking soda, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my brown bread?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of orange zest. Chopped nuts or seeds can also add texture and flavor, making your brown bread even more delicious.

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).

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