June'S Brown Bread
June's Brown Bread offers a hearty, sweet, and nutty flavor profile with the richness of raisins and chopped nuts. Its moist texture and warm aroma make it perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a comforting accompaniment to meals. Suitable for bread lovers and those seeking a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix raisins, butter, salt, and baking soda.
- Pour the boiling water over the mixture and let stand for at least 3 hours.
- Add sifted all-purpose flour, sugar, chopped nuts, and eggs to the mixture.
- Fill 9 greased and floured medium-sized cans about halfway full.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
- Turn loaves on their sides to cool.
- Wrap in foil and store overnight in the refrigerator for easy slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar to 1.5 cups. You can substitute chopped walnuts for the nuts for a different texture, or use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a tangy twist. Remember to sift the flour to ensure a light and fluffy loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve June's Brown Bread warm or at room temperature, sliced thick with butter for a delightful breakfast treat. It also pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a comforting side. For dessert, consider serving it alongside a scoop of ice cream or a slice of Cherry Shortcake for a deliciously sweet combination.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the loaves to cool completely before storing. Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen 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 June'S Brown Bread contains roughly 1024 calories, with 15g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1364mg per serving (59% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour to add more fiber and nutrients. However, note that this may alter the texture, making it denser. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and test again.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding chopped apples, pears, or dried apricots for added flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with different nuts as well, such as pecans or almonds, to create your own unique version of this classic bread.
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).