Holiday Quick Breads
A moist, sweet quick bread with vanilla flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking, easy to prepare in a loaf pan for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream 1 cup sugar with 4 tablespoons of shortening.
- Add 1 cup milk, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat well.
- Add the mixture of 2 cups flour, 3 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until combined.
- Pour into a greased and floured 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you're short on milk, yogurt or sour cream can work as a substitute, providing moisture. Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense bread. You can also add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor, similar to variations found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This holiday quick bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a Cottage Cheese And Cold-Cut Platter for a balanced brunch or holiday gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for about a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Quick Breads contains roughly 449 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This quick bread can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is wrapped well to maintain freshness. It also freezes well; wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Additionally, consider incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries for a festive twist. These additions can create a delightful variation reminiscent of Oatmeal Breakfast Bars.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to make the bread a bit healthier. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour may make the bread denser, so you might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for a lighter 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).