Ma'S Brown Bread
Ma's Brown Bread is a moist, flavorful steamed bread with a rich molasses and raisin taste, perfect for hearty breakfasts or teatime indulgence. Suitable for all bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together.
- Pour the mixture into two greased one-pound coffee cans.
- Steam in a kettle of boiling water for 3 hours.
- Cover the cans with foil while steaming.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don’t have sour milk, you can sour regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adding nuts or seeds can enhance the flavor and texture. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar if you prefer a less sweet bread. This recipe can also be adapted to make muffins; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ma'S Brown Bread warm with butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat. It pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a heartier meal, consider enjoying it alongside a bowl of soup or a salad. This bread can also be a lovely addition to a breakfast spread, complementing dishes like Southern Hush Puppies or Buttermilk Candy.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or oven, which will help restore its moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ma'S Brown Bread contains roughly 16 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2194mg per serving (95% 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 regular milk instead of sour milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to sour it. Let it sit for about five minutes before adding it to the recipe. This will mimic the acidity of sour milk, helping the baking soda to react and provide the necessary leavening.
How do I know when the bread is done cooking?
The bread is done when it has risen and feels firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. Remember that it will continue to cook slightly once removed from the heat.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that adding too many extra ingredients may affect the cooking time slightly, so check for doneness as you approach the end of the steaming.
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).