Holiday Brown Bread
A moist, hearty brown bread loaded with raisins and walnuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a wholesome snack, offering rich flavors and chewy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the raisins, sugar, and butter or margarine.
- Pour the boiling water over the mixture.
- Cover and set aside for 8 to 10 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven as needed, then add the beaten egg, flour, baking soda, salt, and walnut pieces to the soaked mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, soak the raisins overnight in boiling water to enhance their sweetness. If you don't have walnuts, consider using pecans or almonds as substitutes. You can also experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Make sure to check the bread with a toothpick towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This holiday brown bread is delicious served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a great addition to brunch or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, enjoy it with a slice of your favorite Cheese Cake Muffins.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover brown bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Brown Bread contains roughly 1211 calories, with 9g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (29% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 different fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the moisture content is similar to avoid affecting the bread's texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this bread vegan by replacing the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using vegan butter or margarine. The results will still be delicious!
What can I serve with this bread for a festive meal?
This brown bread pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal. It also complements cheese platters or can be enjoyed as part of a festive brunch spread with fruits and pastries.
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).