Old Fashioned Chew Bread
Old Fashioned Chew Bread features a rich, nutty flavor with a chewy texture, perfect for those who enjoy nostalgic baked treats with a touch of pecan sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the light brown sugar and eggs in a heavy pan.
- Stir well to mix completely.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves, being careful to avoid scorching.
- Remove from heat and add all other ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a greased and floured oblong pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes. Stir the eggs in well to prevent them from scrambling when mixed with the warm sugar. For added texture, you can fold in some chopped dried fruits, which will complement this Old Fashioned Chew Bread beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Fashioned Chew Bread is delightful served warm, perhaps with a smear of butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a heartier breakfast, enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad or serve it as part of a brunch spread with Peach French Toast or Rich Cocoa Balls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm it in a toaster oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Chew Bread contains roughly 489 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for light brown sugar, but the flavor and texture may slightly differ. Light brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor, while granulated sugar will yield a drier crumb. If using granulated sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic brown sugar's qualities.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. The texture might vary slightly, but it should still yield a delicious result. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or even add chocolate chips for a sweeter touch. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also enhance the flavor and texture. Just keep the total amount of add-ins to about a cup to maintain the bread's structure.
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).