Unleavened Communion Bread
Unleavened communion bread offers a simple, tender treat with a subtle buttery flavor, perfect for religious observances or as a crisp snack. Its minimal ingredients and quick baking time make it ideal for those seeking a wholesome, easy-to-make bread that pairs well with various spreads or toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, Crisco, salt, and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Add cold water and mix until combined.
- Roll the dough as for pie crust, approximately 1/8-inch thick onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Prick the rolled dough with a fork.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces (1/4-inch squares) with a knife before baking.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until very light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure the Crisco is very cold before mixing it with the flour. You can substitute butter for Crisco if desired, although the flavor will differ slightly. Additionally, consider adding herbs or spices for extra flavor. If you're gluten-sensitive, using a gluten-free flour blend works well, but you may need to adjust the water content.
Serving Suggestions
These communion bread pieces are perfect for serving during religious gatherings or family meals. They pair beautifully with soup or salad, adding a comforting element to your dining experience. You may also serve them alongside spreads or dips, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover communion bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the pieces in a zip-top bag. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unleavened Communion Bread contains roughly 204 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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 whole wheat flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular flour, but the texture may be denser. You might need to increase the water slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
What should I do if the dough is too dry?
If the dough feels too dry, gradually add more cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
Can I add flavorings to the bread?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a bit of garlic powder. Just be mindful of the balance to ensure the bread complements the meal.
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).