Christmas Gift Bread
A hearty and wholesome bread featuring whole wheat flour, wheat germ, and dried milk powder, with a subtle nutty flavor from sesame seeds. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with butter and jam, this bread offers a dense, satisfying texture that suits breakfast, snacks, or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the whole wheat flour, unbleached flour, wheat germ, dried milk powder, sesame seed, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in the water well until the mixture is combined.
- Butter four 1-pound shortening cans.
- Pour the batter evenly into each prepared can.
- Smooth the tops of the batter in each can.
- Cover each can tightly with foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
- Immediately remove the bread from the cans after baking.
- Cool on racks before slicing or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider substituting half of the wheat germ with ground flaxseed. You can also use almond milk powder instead of dried milk powder for a dairy-free version. Ensure the water is warm to help activate the baking powder effectively. If you like a sweeter bread, adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Christmas Gift Bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a side of Strawberry Buttermilk Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of soup or stew. Consider slicing it for holiday gift-giving or sharing at gatherings.
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 thaw the bread at room temperature and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Gift Bread contains roughly 1029 calories, with 18g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. 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 all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for the whole wheat flour, but note that the texture and flavor will differ. Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and a nutty taste, while all-purpose flour will yield a lighter bread. If you want to maintain some health benefits, consider using a mix of both.
What can I do if I don't have shortening cans?
If you don't have shortening cans, you can use any oven-safe container, such as small loaf pans or ramekins. Just make sure to adjust the baking time, as smaller containers may require less time in the oven. You could also use a muffin tin for individual servings.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. If baking in different containers, check for doneness individually, as sizes may vary.
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).