New England Brown Bread
Sweet and hearty New England Brown Bread features raisins and rich molasses, offering a moist texture and warming flavors, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or teatime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine whole wheat flour, buttermilk, and molasses.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Stir in raisins.
- Pour the batter into well-greased 11.5 ounce coffee cans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until tested done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole grain molasses instead of dark molasses. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute some of the molasses with applesauce. Ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature for better mixing, and sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps. Adding chopped nuts can enhance the texture and flavor, making this bread even heartier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of New England Brown Bread with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack. It pairs beautifully with soups and stews, especially hearty bean soups. For a special treat, enjoy it alongside Raven'S 'Holiday Spirits' Pecan Pound Cake for a comforting dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread; just make sure to slice it first for easy serving later. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Brown Bread contains roughly 1638 calories, with 35g protein, 378g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), protein (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute. This will help achieve a similar tanginess and acidity that buttermilk provides in the recipe.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots work well as substitutes. You could also use chopped nuts for added crunch or even chocolate chips for a sweeter variation. Just adjust the quantity to your taste.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. Additionally, the bread should have a firm crust and a slight bounce when gently pressed. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
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).