Raisin Bran Bread
A hearty, wholesome raisin bran bread with rich molasses flavor and chewy raisins, perfect for breakfast or snacks, suitable for whole grains enthusiasts and bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the wet ingredients together: molasses, milk, and vinegar.
- Mix the dry ingredients together: bran, whole wheat flour, and baking soda.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the raisins.
- Pour batter into oiled loaf pans.
- Bake immediately at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you're short on time, you can replace the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different texture. Make sure to measure your flour properly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid dense bread. Additionally, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Raisin Bran Bread is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. It also makes a great base for French toast.
Storage & Reheating
Once the Raisin Bran Bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, slice and toast in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Bran Bread contains roughly 338 calories, with 6g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 915mg per serving (40% 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 whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ. Whole wheat flour provides a nuttier taste and denser texture, while all-purpose flour will result in a lighter bread. If using all-purpose flour, you may want to reduce the liquid slightly to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the Raisin Bran Bread healthier, consider reducing the amount of molasses or using a natural sugar substitute. You can also add more bran or incorporate ground flaxseed for additional fiber. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, try using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the molasses to keep it moist without added sugar.
What can I do if my bread is too dense?
If your Raisin Bran Bread turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing or too much flour. To prevent this, mix the ingredients until just combined and avoid compacting the flour when measuring. If you find the bread is consistently dense, consider adding a bit more baking soda or checking the freshness of your ingredients, especially the baking soda and flour.
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).