Mom'S Anise Bread
Mom's Anise Bread features rich molasses flavor with a hint of anise, creating a hearty, aromatic loaf perfect for breakfast or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix yeast and lukewarm water and set aside to activate.
- Scald the mixture of milk and water, then add sugar, salt, and shortening.
- Cool the mixture, then add molasses and the yeast mixture.
- Combine graham flour and white flour, then add to the wet ingredients, kneading until the dough is softer than typical white bread dough.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough twice, then shape into loaves and let rise slightly before baking.
- Bake at 325°F for approximately 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the water is lukewarm, as overly hot water can kill the yeast. If you don't have graham flour, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a similar flavor. For a sweeter twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. Knead well until the dough is smooth and elastic; this will help achieve a soft texture.
Serving Suggestions
This anise bread pairs beautifully with butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast. Serve it alongside Turkey Supreme Glamour Salad for a complete meal or as a side to Barbecued Smoked Brisket. It also makes a fantastic base for sandwiches or a sweet toast with jam, making it versatile for any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover anise 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 a month. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Anise Bread contains roughly 2685 calories, with 35g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 189g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), protein (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2773mg per serving (121% 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. Use the same amount and mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing. The bread will still rise well and maintain its delicious flavor.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, check the temperature of your environment; it should be warm, around 75-80°F. If it's too cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot, like an oven with the light on. If the yeast was expired, it may not activate properly.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. Just fold them in after kneading, but be cautious not to overwork the dough, which may affect its rise.
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).