Irish Treacle Bread
Irish Treacle Bread offers a hearty, sweet flavor profile with molasses and raisins, perfect for breakfast or teatime, especially suited for those who enjoy wholesome, rustic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Add milk, molasses, melted shortening, and raisins; let stand for 20 minutes so oatmeal will absorb some liquid.
- Pour the batter into a greased bread loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the molasses with honey or maple syrup. Ensure your oatmeal is rolled oats for better texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour instead of regular flour. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the taste. Additionally, for a twist, mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast. This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more substantial meal, enjoy it alongside a bowl of hearty soup or a salad. You can also slice it to make sandwiches, adding savory fillings for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Irish Treacle 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, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven for a few minutes, ensuring it regains its soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Treacle Bread contains roughly 1141 calories, with 6g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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 a different type of sweetener instead of molasses?
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for molasses. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and color of the bread, but it will still be delicious. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sweeteners are usually sweeter than molasses.
Is it possible to make this bread without dairy?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. This makes the recipe suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet. Just ensure that the non-dairy milk is unsweetened for best results.
Can I add nuts or seeds to the recipe?
Definitely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of the bread. Add about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or seeds to the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. This addition not only provides a delightful crunch but also boosts the nutritional value.
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).