Bucket Bread
A hearty, fruit-filled bread with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for tea time or as a dessert for those who enjoy rich, moist baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the currants, dates, and raisins.
- Add soda and oleo, then stir well.
- Let the mixture stand until completely cold.
- Add sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla, salt, and nuts; then mix well.
- Grease and flour seven 7 (No. 303) cans.
- Fill each can half full with batter.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Test with a toothpick for doneness.
- If not browned enough, raise the oven temperature slightly.
- Hit the side of the can with your hand to loosen the bread, then remove from the can for cooling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can substitute the oleo with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different taste. If you don't have currants, feel free to use dried cranberries or cherries instead. Make sure to check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful bread can be served as a sweet breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Pair it with a spread of cream cheese or butter for extra indulgence. It also complements a cup of tea or coffee beautifully. For a creative twist, try serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert option. It pairs beautifully with Spiced Pears for a warm, comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Bucket Bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bucket Bread contains roughly 939 calories, with 19g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried fruit in this recipe?
While fresh fruit can add moisture, it may alter the texture and baking time of the bread. It's best to stick with dried fruit like currants, raisins, and dates, as they provide sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the bread well.
What type of nuts work best in Bucket Bread?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices for adding crunch and flavor to Bucket Bread. If you're looking for a more unique twist, try adding macadamia nuts for a buttery richness or almonds for a hint of sweetness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Bucket Bread gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help bind the ingredients together for the best 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).