St. Gregory'S Abbey Altar Bread
Delicious miniature loaves of whole wheat altar bread with a subtly sweet and hearty flavor, perfect for religious ceremonies or special occasions requiring wholesome, handcrafted bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Add yeast to warm water and mix until dissolved.
- Measure honey into the water and stir until dissolved.
- Add olive oil to the mixture and stir for a few seconds.
- Stir in the salt.
- Add the whole wheat flour and mix until combined.
- The dough will become somewhat stiff; add another tablespoon of warm water if needed.
- Take a ball of raw dough and roll it out to 1/4-inch thickness and 4 1/2 inches across.
- Make about 5 mini loaves from the dough.
- Place the loaves on an oiled cookie sheet and let rise for 10 to 15 minutes on top of the oven.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly sweeter bread, consider using maple syrup instead of honey as a substitute. If whole wheat flour isn't available, you can use all-purpose flour, though the texture may differ. When rolling out the dough, dust your surface with a bit of flour to prevent sticking. If your dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These mini loaves are perfect for serving with soups or salads, complementing dishes like Grandmom'S Sweet Potato Biscuits. They can also be used as a base for bruschetta or enjoyed with a selection of cheeses. For a twist, serve them alongside a dipping sauce like Low Country Cocktail Sauce for a delightful starter.
Storage & Reheating
Once baked, allow the altar bread to cool completely on a wire rack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, thaw and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of St. Gregory'S Abbey Altar Bread contains roughly 75 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1700mg per serving (74% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity of wheat flour. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but the flavor should still be delicious.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The altar bread is done when it is lightly golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of a loaf. Avoid overbaking to keep the bread soft.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of the altar bread. You can mix in about 1 to 2 teaspoons of your chosen herb during the mixing stage. Spices like garlic powder or onion powder can also add a nice touch, making these loaves even more flavorful.
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).