Grandma Hoover'S Brown Bread

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Grandma Hoover's Brown Bread is a hearty, tangy loaf with a distinctive sour flavor, perfect for hearty breakfasts or as a side for savory meals. Suitable for all bread lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sour milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 2/3 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Karo
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 cups graham flour

Instructions

  1. Mix sour milk, salt, soda, and Karo in the order given.
  2. Pour the batter into regular size vegetable cans, filling each three-quarters full.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses along with the Karo. If you don’t have sour milk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. Ensure to fill the cans three-quarters full to allow for proper rising. Check the bread a few minutes early to ensure it doesn't overbake.

Serving Suggestions

This brown bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups or stews, making it a great side for a comforting meal. It can also be enjoyed with butter and honey for breakfast or a snack. For a delightful twist, try serving it alongside Rob'S Cheese Cake for dessert. Slice it thinly for sandwiches or toast it for a crunchy texture.

Storage & Reheating

Once cooled, wrap the brown bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the freezer where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Hoover'S Brown Bread contains roughly 325 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

325 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5g 10% DV
Total Fat 18.2g 23% DV
Carbs 36.4g 13% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1750mg 76% DV
Potassium 435.7mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 0.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.4mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 30.9mg 2% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk 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 regular flour instead of graham flour?

While you can substitute regular flour for graham flour, it will change the texture and flavor of the bread. Graham flour contributes a nutty taste and denser texture. If you do substitute, consider adding a bit of whole wheat flour for a similar effect.

What can I serve with Grandma Hoover's Brown Bread?

This brown bread is versatile and complements a variety of dishes. Serve it with soups, like a hearty chili, or with a cheese platter. For a sweet touch, it pairs nicely with jam or honey. You could also enjoy it with Sausage Ball Appetizers for a savory snack.

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 just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. Overbaking can result in a dry 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).

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