Raisin Boston Browned Bread
A hearty, flavorful bread featuring whole wheat, rye, and cornmeal, sweetened with molasses and studded with raisins, perfect for breakfast or snack with a rustic charm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease and flour two 1-pound coffee cans and cut aluminum foil, 2 inches larger than the opening of the cans, to use as lids.
- Grease the foil.
- Mix the flours, cornmeal, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Stir in the dark seedless raisins.
- Add buttermilk and dark molasses to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared coffee cans.
- Cover each can with the prepared foil, sealing well.
- Place the cans in a steamer or large pot with a rack, and steam for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from steamer, let cool slightly, then unmold and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the whole wheat and rye flours before mixing. You can substitute honey for dark molasses if you prefer a milder sweetness, but the flavor profile will change. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. Ensure the coffee cans are sealed tightly for even steaming.
Serving Suggestions
This Raisin Boston Browned Bread pairs beautifully with butter or cream cheese for breakfast or brunch. It can be served alongside hearty soups like Souper Mac And Cheese or enjoyed as a sweet snack with a cup of tea. Consider slicing it thinly and toasting it for a delightful crunch, or serve it warm with a drizzle of honey.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply slice and toast or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Boston Browned Bread contains roughly 213 calories, with 7g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1528mg per serving (66% 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 other types of flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other flours such as spelt or oat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary. If using gluten-free options, ensure the flour blend contains xanthan gum to help with the structure of the bread.
How can I tell when the bread is done steaming?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Additionally, the bread should have a firm, slightly springy texture. If it’s undercooked, it will feel soft and wet, so be sure to check thoroughly before removing it from the steamer.
Can I add nuts or seeds to the batter?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. If you prefer seeds, consider adding sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Just keep in mind that this may alter the moisture content slightly.
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).