Molasses Whole Wheat Bread
A hearty, flavorful whole wheat bread with molasses and walnuts, perfect for wholesome sandwiches or as a comforting snack, suitable for breakfast or tea time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine milk, water, and molasses.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until smooth.
- Add chopped walnuts to the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 1/4 x 5 1/4 x 2 1/2-inch loaf pan.
- Let stand for 20 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 1/2 hours.
- Cool the bread for 5 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and allow to cool completely.
- Slice into thin slices after storing overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider increasing the brown sugar or adding a touch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute with a natural sweetener like honey, adjusting the liquid content slightly. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise, and for a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This Molasses Whole Wheat Bread is delicious on its own or spread with butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with soups or stews for a comforting meal. For a sweet treat, serve it with honey or jam. Consider making French toast with leftovers for a delightful breakfast option; it’s perfect for brunch gatherings or alongside coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Cool the bread completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container to maintain moisture. This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and toast in a toaster or warm in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Whole Wheat Bread contains roughly 555 calories, with 7g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% 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 all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for the whole wheat flour, but the texture and flavor will be different. Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier taste and denser texture. If you choose to use all-purpose flour, consider adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten to help with elasticity.
What can I use if I don't have molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly. Dark corn syrup can be used in a pinch, but it lacks the rich flavor of molasses.
How can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make this bread gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary, so consider adding a little more liquid if the batter appears too thick.
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).