Gooey Old-Fashioned Steamed Molasses Bread
When I was growing up, the smell of this bread greeted me as I walked in the door from school. I thought everyone baked bread in a slow cooker. My grandmother, my mother and I—and now my daughters—all bake this. It’s comfort food at its best!
When I was growing up, the smell of this bread greeted me as I walked in the door from school. I thought everyone baked bread in a slow cooker. My grandmother, my mother and I—and now my daughters—all bake this. It’s comfort food at its best!
- Carbohydrate 27.1496010711091 g
- Cholesterol 43.721875 mg
- Fat 12.1982683334588 g
- Fiber 2.25167758478863 g
- Protein 2.80655828223622 g
- Saturated Fat 7.44652389585386 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (53g)
- Sodium 224.065864720467 mg
- Sugar 24.8979234863205 g
- Trans Fat 0.940366645865189 g
- Calories 221 calories
Step-by-step
- Layer two 24-in. pieces of foil. Starting with a long side, roll up foil to make a 1-in.-wide strip; shape into a coil. Place on bottom of a 5-qt. slow cooker to make a rack.
- Combine bran, flours, cranberries, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat egg, buttermilk, molasses and honey. Stir into flour mixture just until blended (do not overbeat).
- Pour into a greased and floured 2-qt. baking dish. Tightly cover with lightly greased foil.
- Place in prepared slow cooker. Cook, covered, on high until a thermometer reads 190-200 degrees, about 3 hours.
- Remove dish to a wire rack; cool 10 minutes before inverting loaf onto the rack.
- Serve warm or cold.
The Sweetest Memory Baked in a Slow Cooker
The scent of warm bread baking has always held a special place in my heart. It's a smell that instantly transports me back to childhood, a time filled with the comforting aroma of my grandmother's kitchen. This isn't just any bread; it's Gooey Old-Fashioned Steamed Molasses Bread, a recipe passed down through generations of women in my family. From my grandmother to my mother, and now to my daughters, this recipe represents more than just a delicious treat; it’s a tangible connection to our shared history, a symbol of family, warmth, and love. Each loaf carries with it the memories of laughter, family gatherings, and the simple joy of sharing something homemade and delicious.
I remember vividly the anticipation as I’d come home from school, the tantalizing smell guiding me straight to the kitchen. The house would be filled with the rich, sweet fragrance of molasses and spices, a symphony of scents that promised comfort and satisfaction. It was a magical experience, and one I’ve cherished and replicated ever since. While many people associate bread baking with traditional ovens, my family has always relied on the trusty slow cooker – a kitchen appliance that has become as much a part of our family legacy as the recipe itself. The slow, gentle heat of the slow cooker imparts a unique moistness and tenderness to the bread, giving it that signature gooey texture that makes it so addictive. It's a surprisingly easy method, perfect for busy weeknights or those days when you simply want to enjoy the simple pleasures of home-baked goodness without the fuss.
More than just a recipe, it's a legacy. This bread isn't just about the perfect combination of ingredients; it's about the process, the tradition, the sharing. It’s about passing down a culinary heritage and creating new memories around a table filled with loved ones. It’s about the quiet satisfaction of seeing the smiles on their faces as they savor the first bite. This molasses bread isn't just food; it’s a piece of my family's heart, baked with love and shared with joy. And that, I believe, is the greatest recipe of all.
The magic of this bread isn't confined to my kitchen. I’ve shared the recipe with countless friends and family members, each one experiencing the same heartwarming sensation I had as a child. Whether served warm from the slow cooker or enjoyed cold the next day, this bread consistently delivers a taste of pure comfort. The slight sweetness from the molasses, perfectly balanced by the spice of cinnamon, creates an irresistible flavor profile that complements a range of accompaniments. It's equally delicious with butter, cheese, or simply on its own. It's a versatile treat that can grace breakfast tables, afternoon tea gatherings, or even a casual weeknight dinner.
A Bread for Every Occasion. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It can easily be adjusted to suit individual tastes and preferences. Feeling adventurous? Try adding different dried fruits, nuts, or spices to create your own unique twist. Want a healthier version? Swap out some of the white flour for whole wheat. The possibilities are endless. But whatever variations you choose, the essence of this bread – that comforting warmth and delicious flavor – will always remain.
This molasses bread is a reminder that the simplest things in life often hold the greatest value. It's a symbol of family, tradition, and the enduring power of simple pleasures. And so, I invite you to embark on this baking journey, to create your own memories, and to experience the magic of Gooey Old-Fashioned Steamed Molasses Bread for yourself. It's a recipe that will not only fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma but will also warm your heart and create memories that will last a lifetime.
