Unkneaded Brown Bread

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Cuisine: American

Kneadless brown bread with hearty whole wheat flavor, lightly sweetened with dark brown sugar and enriched with cooking oil. Its rustic texture makes it perfect for wholesome breakfasts or snacks. Suitable for those seeking quick, no-knead bread with deep, nutty flavors and a satisfying crust.

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Ingredients

  • 2 pkg. yeast cakes
  • 1 Tbsp. sea salt
  • 7 c. whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 c. cooking oil
  • 1/2 c. warm water
  • 2 1/4 c. warm water

Instructions

  1. Combine the yeast, 1/2 cup warm water, and sugar in a bowl.
  2. Set the mixture in a warm place for 10 minutes to dissolve the yeast.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, sea salt, and dark brown sugar.
  4. Add the cooking oil, the remaining 2 1/4 cups warm water, and the dissolved yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
  5. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and form a dough.
  6. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan or shape into a loaf.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten to the flour. You can substitute half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour if you prefer a softer bread. For added flavor, mix in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. Ensure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation.

Serving Suggestions

This unkneaded brown bread is perfect for breakfast with butter and jam or as a side for soups and salads. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Stew or can be enjoyed as a hearty sandwich base. Consider adding slices to a charcuterie board with cheese and olives for a delightful appetizer.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a resealable bag. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Unkneaded Brown Bread contains roughly 2026 calories, with 6g protein, 447g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1865mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

2026 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.6g 11% DV
Total Fat 30.8g 39% DV
Carbs 446.7g 100% DV
Fiber 3.5g 13% DV
Sugar 407.6g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1864.6mg 81% DV
Potassium 668.1mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 435.7mg 34% DV
Iron 5mg 28% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 active dry yeast instead of cake yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast in this recipe. Simply use 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and dissolve it in the warm water with the sugar, just like the recipe instructs for cake yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly before adding it to the dry ingredients.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of the bread?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dry ingredients. You could also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits, such as walnuts or raisins, to add texture and sweetness to the bread. Experiment with spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour blends that are suitable for baking. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to help with the bread's structure. Note that the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the original recipe.

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).

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