Honey Bran Bread
Honey Bran Bread offers a hearty, mildly sweet flavor with the wholesome goodness of bran and honey, perfect for breakfast or snacking with butter or jam.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix All-Bran, shortening, and boiling water and allow the shortening to melt.
- In a separate bowl, beat well the eggs, honey, salt, and baking soda.
- Combine all ingredients and add flour gradually.
- Let the dough rise in a bowl for 1 1/2 hours.
- Place the dough in 2 large or 3 medium greased loaf pans and let rise for 1 hour.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes for medium loaves or 40 minutes for large loaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. If you're out of honey, maple syrup can be a sweet alternative, although it may alter the flavor slightly. Adding nuts or dried fruits can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. Make sure the water isn’t too hot when mixing with yeast; otherwise, it could kill the yeast and prevent rising.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Bran Bread pairs excellently with butter or a drizzle of additional honey. It can be served as a breakfast item alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. For a savory option, enjoy slices with Ann'S Quick Dip for a delightful appetizer. Consider serving it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the Honey Bran 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, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Bran Bread contains roughly 333 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 713mg per serving (31% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. You won’t need to dissolve instant yeast in warm water first; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients, and proceed as directed. This may also reduce the rising time slightly, so keep an eye on the dough.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Honey Bran Bread gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your yeast is also gluten-free. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently. Allow the dough to rise longer to achieve the desired texture.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or mix in chopped nuts, raisins, or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness. You can also experiment with citrus zest for a fresh flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many additional ingredients may affect the dough's consistency.
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).