Shoo-Fly Bread
Shoo-Fly Bread is a moist, sweet, molasses-flavored quick bread with a crumbly topping, perfect for breakfast or teatime, appealing to those who enjoy rich, nostalgic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and brown sugar. Cut in shortening with a pastry blender until fine crumbs.
- Remove 1/2 cup of crumbs and set aside.
- To the remaining crumbs, add 1 cup of flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir until well blended.
- Mix together the egg, molasses, and water. Add to the crumb mixture and stir by hand just until blended.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 5 x 9-inch loaf pan.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 65 minutes or until tests done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute, giving the bread a slightly different texture. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. This recipe is a delightful addition to any American recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Shoo-Fly Bread warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of Grandma's Famous Pecan Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the Shoo-Fly Bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shoo-Fly Bread contains roughly 606 calories, with 9g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before pouring it into the loaf pan and baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will vary slightly. Using a combination of brown sugar and a bit of corn syrup can also mimic the sweetness and moisture of molasses.
Why did my bread not rise properly?
If your bread didn't rise, it could be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check the freshness of your leavening agents. Additionally, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense texture.
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).