I’ve been making bread with molasses for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite recipes. The first time I tried it was at a friend’s house, and I was hooked.
There’s something about the deep, rich flavor of molasses that just makes me happy. It’s a bit of an old-fashioned ingredient, but trust me, it’s worth seeking out.
Molasses has a thick, syrupy texture that’s perfect for adding depth to baked goods like bread. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house?
It’s like a warm hug for your senses. As for the recipe itself, I’ll be sharing my tried-and-true method for making delicious homemade bread with molasses.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a special treat or just a comforting snack to get you through the day.
Molasses Bread
4.9 from 1615 votes
This molasses bread is a soft, slightly sweet loaf with a rich, deep flavor from dark molasses. It is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter.
1In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast.
2Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
3Add the dark molasses, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture.
4Stir well to combine all the wet ingredients.
5Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
6Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
7Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
8If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
9Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface.
10Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1. 5 hours, until doubled in size.
11Punch down the dough to release the air, then shape it into a loaf.
12Place the loaf into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan, seam side down.
13Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a towel and let the dough rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until it rises just above the rim of the pan.
14Preheat the oven to 375°F.
15Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
16The internal temperature should reach 190°F.
17Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
For a richer flavor, use dark molasses. You can substitute up to 1 cup of whole wheat flour for a denser, more nutritious loaf. Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Watch Video Of How Molasses Bread Works
This bread with molasses recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is versatile and easy to make. I bring it to family gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe.
It works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and it stores well so you can enjoy it all week. To store it, keep the loaf in a bread box or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature.
For longer storage, slice and freeze it so you can toast individual pieces as needed. To reheat, pop a slice in the toaster or warm it in the oven at 350 degrees for about five minutes.
Serve it with butter, jam, or use it for grilled cheese sandwiches. It is a reliable recipe that never lets me down.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Molasses Bread
Q: What is molasses and where does it come from?
Molasses is a thick, dark liquid made from refining sugar cane or sugar beets. It’s been used in cooking for centuries and has a rich history in many cultures.
Q: Can I use other types of sugar instead of molasses?
While you can substitute other types of sugar in some recipes, molasses has a unique flavor and texture that makes it essential to this bread recipe.
Q: How do I store leftover bread with molasses?
You can store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flours like almond flour or coconut flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Q: What are some other uses for molasses besides baking?
Molasses has many uses beyond baking – try using it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or add it to your favorite BBQ sauce recipe.
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