Gertrude'S Brown Bread
Gertrude's Brown Bread offers hearty, wholesome flavors with rich raisins and a moist texture, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to bread lovers seeking a rustic treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the dry ingredients: whole wheat flour, cornmeal, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, brown sugar, sugar, beaten egg, milk, and raisins to the dry ingredients.
- Beat the mixture for 1 minute until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased No. 5 iron skillet.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister bread, consider adding a bit of unsweetened applesauce or using honey instead of some of the brown sugar. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients well to prevent clumps. You can also experiment by adding nuts or seeds for added crunch. This recipe is a great opportunity to explore other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Gertrude's Brown Bread can be served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a perfect side for a cozy meal. Consider serving it alongside Mama's Pink Salad for a colorful and satisfying spread. Toasted slices also make a great base for toppings like avocado or nut butter.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or oven until heated through for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gertrude'S Brown Bread contains roughly 649 calories, with 14g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg per serving (65% 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 regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and help achieve the desired texture in the bread.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also be included for added texture. Consider mixing in some dried cranberries or chopped dates along with the raisins for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. Additionally, the top should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back when lightly pressed. If it’s still wet when checked, bake for an additional 5 minutes and test again.
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).