Herb Loaf
A wholesome herb loaf with a hearty whole wheat base, infused with mixed herbs and a buttery crumb, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the whole wheat flour, salt, baking powder, and mixed herbs in a bowl.
- Cut the butter into small pieces and rub it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
- Stir in the sugar; beat the egg and add it to the milk, then stir into the mixture.
- Mix everything well and pour into a greased and floured loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider swapping half of the whole wheat flour with spelt flour for a nuttier flavor. You can also experiment with the herbs; fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the taste. If you're looking for a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a beaten egg for binding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Herb Loaf warm, sliced thick with a pat of butter or alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a base for an open-faced sandwich. For a delightful twist, try it with a spread of hummus or avocado.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Herb Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through. This loaf is great toasted with a bit of butter spread on top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Loaf contains roughly 793 calories, with 10g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2184mg per serving (95% 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 replace whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, the texture and flavor will be slightly different, as all-purpose flour is lighter and less nutty. You might want to adjust the liquid slightly if the batter seems too dry.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, dried mixed herbs work well too. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity slightly as they are more concentrated. This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
Can I freeze the Herb Loaf?
Absolutely! The Herb Loaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired for a fresh taste.
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).