Hobo Bread
Hobo Bread is a rustic, sweet bread filled with raisins and nuts, offering a moist texture and rich flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or casual gatherings, its simple ingredients and baking method make it accessible for bakers of all levels seeking a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup boiling water over the raisins and soda.
- Let stand until cool.
- Add the sugar, shortening, egg, flour, salt, and nuts to the raisin mixture and stir.
- Pour the batter into well-greased and floured large soup or juice cans, filling them half to 2/3 full.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with applesauce. Toasted walnuts or pecans can enhance the nutty flavor, and for a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips. This recipe is versatile and can be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Hobo Bread is delightful on its own, but it can be paired with a smear of cream cheese or butter for added richness. Serve it as a breakfast treat alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. It also makes a great snack with coffee or tea, and for a fun dessert option, try it alongside a slice of Sugar-Free Cheese Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hobo Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and pop it in the toaster or microwave until warmed through, enhancing its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hobo Bread contains roughly 700 calories, with 10g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Each fruit will impart its own unique sweetness and texture, making the bread versatile and customizable to your taste preferences.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If the batter appears too thick, gradually add a splash of milk or water until you reach the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape. Adjusting the moisture can help ensure a light and fluffy texture once baked.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Hobo Bread vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) and using plant-based shortening or oil. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version without sacrificing 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).