Are you looking for a unique and delicious bread recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Boston Brown Bread in a can recipe is a delightful twist on traditional baking, perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced home cooks seeking a quick and satisfying homemade treat. Forget complicated kneading and proofing – this recipe utilizes the magic of a can to create a moist, slightly sweet, and wonderfully textured bread that’s perfect alongside soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, ready in a flash!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup rye flour
- 1 cup cornmeal (coarse ground is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, but highly recommended!)
Equipment:
- Two 1-pound coffee cans (clean and well-rinsed)
- Aluminum foil
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prepare Your Cans
This step is crucial for successful baking! Clean and thoroughly rinse two 1-pound coffee cans. Line each can generously with aluminum foil, extending the foil several inches above the rim. This will create a makeshift liner, making it easy to remove your delicious bread later.
Mixing the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, rye flour, cornmeal, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to prevent lumps.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses and boiling water. The boiling water activates the baking soda, creating a light and airy texture. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the dry ingredients.
Combining and Baking:
Pour the molasses mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. Stir in the raisins (if using).
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared coffee cans, filling them about ¾ full. Fold the foil over the tops of the cans to create a secure seal.
Place the cans in a large pot or roasting pan. Add enough boiling water to reach halfway up the sides of the cans. This helps create steam and ensures even baking.
Baking Time and Tips:
Cover the pot with a lid and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven; keep an eye on the bread and check for doneness.
Once baked, carefully remove the cans from the pot using oven mitts. Let the bread cool completely in the cans before removing the foil. You can gently invert the cans onto a plate to release the bread.
Serving Suggestions:
This Boston Brown Bread is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it alongside hearty soups, stews, chili, or simply with butter and a cup of coffee or tea. It makes a fantastic addition to any breakfast, brunch, or even as a delightful afternoon snack.
Variations:
- Spiced Brown Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, and a pinch of cloves to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nutty Brown Bread: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Sweet Brown Bread: Increase the molasses to 1 ¼ cups for a sweeter, richer bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Fiber: 5-6 grams
This recipe provides healthy and delicious options for quick dinner ideas, satisfying your hunger with homemade cooking that's both simple and rewarding. Enjoy experimenting and making this fantastic Boston Brown Bread your own!