Dark Yeast Bread
Rich and hearty dark yeast bread with wholesome grains and a hint of molasses, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, appealing to bread lovers seeking robust flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, oats, All-Bran, salt, molasses, and sugar together in a large bowl.
- Pour the boiling water over the mixture and stir well. Let it cool until lukewarm.
- Sprinkle yeast over the lukewarm mixture and allow it to set until tiny beads appear, about 10 minutes.
- Add 3 1/2 cups sifted flour and mix well to form a dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead until smooth, about 10 minutes.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into pans.
- Let the dough rise in the pans for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 45 minutes until golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Dark Yeast Bread, consider adding herbs like rosemary or even some seeds such as sunflower or flaxseed for added texture. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Ensure your water is just the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it; lukewarm is ideal.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bread pairs beautifully with Swiss Steak Gravy for a comforting meal. It can also be served alongside soups or salads, making it a versatile choice. For a delicious breakfast option, toast slices and spread with butter or your favorite jam. Explore more American recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dark Yeast 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 at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dark Yeast Bread contains roughly 150 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser loaf. You might want to use a mixture of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter texture while still getting the nutritional benefits of whole grains.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check if your yeast is active by proofing it in warm water with a bit of sugar before adding it to the mixture. Additionally, ensure you’re letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment. If it’s too cold, the yeast may not activate properly.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Another way to check is by using a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C). Allow it to cool before slicing 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).