why make this recipe
Molasses Brown Soda Bread is a delightful treat that combines the earthy flavors of whole wheat flour and the sweetness of molasses. It’s not just easy to make, but it also brings a hearty texture that pairs well with soups, cheeses, or simply with butter. This bread is perfect for any time of the day, whether you need a quick breakfast or a comforting side for dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh homemade bread without the long rising times associated with yeast breads.
how to make Molasses Brown Soda Bread
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour (plus extra)
- 1 ¾ cups (210 g) whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup (20 g) wheat germ
- 1 ½ tsp (9 g) baking soda
- 1 tsp (6 g) salt
- 1 ½ cup (375 ml) buttermilk (*see note) (You can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.)
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) molasses (Adjust based on sweetness preference.)
- 2 tbsp (28 g) butter (melted) (Can be substituted with plant-based butter for a vegan option.)
Directions
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, wheat germ, baking soda, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well-mixed.
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, molasses, and melted butter. Then, gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the ingredients are just combined and form a soft dough.
Shaping: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough lightly for a minute, then form it into a round loaf.
Baking: Place the shaped loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross into the top of the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped and is golden brown.
Cooling: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
how to serve Molasses Brown Soda Bread
Slice the Molasses Brown Soda Bread while still warm and spread with butter, honey, or your favorite jam. It is also delicious alongside soups and stews, or as part of a hearty breakfast with eggs.
how to store Molasses Brown Soda Bread
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. To enjoy again, thaw and warm it in the oven.
tips to make Molasses Brown Soda Bread
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Adjust the amount of molasses based on how sweet you want the bread to be.
- Always check the bread by tapping on the bottom for a hollow sound to ensure it is thoroughly baked.
variation
You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the dough for added flavor and texture. Try adding walnuts or raisins to customize your bread even more.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour only, but the bread will be less hearty.
2. Can I make this bread vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative for the buttermilk.
3. What can I serve this bread with?
This bread pairs well with soups, stews, or simply with butter and honey. You can also serve it with cheeses or as part of a sandwich.
Molasses Brown Soda Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra) Use extra for dusting.
- 1.75 cups 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour
- 0.25 cup ¼ cup wheat germ
- 1.5 tsp 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cup buttermilk (see note) Can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
- 3 tbsp 3 tbsp molasses Adjust based on sweetness preference.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp butter (melted) Can be substituted with plant-based butter for vegan option.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, wheat germ, baking soda, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Add Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, molasses, and melted butter. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined to form a soft dough.
Shaping
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough lightly for a minute, then form it into a round loaf.
Baking
- Place the shaped loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep cross into the top of the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped and is golden brown.
Cooling
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.