Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread: Easy Traditional Recipe

Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread: Easy Traditional Recipe

Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread, also known as "Auntie Crave's bread," is a beloved dessert, rich in heritage and flavor. This iconic bread, with its dark molasses glaze and burst of raisins, has a unique appeal that harks back to the traditional culinary roots of Newfoundland. In this article, we'll guide you through an easy recipe to make this delicious bread at home, exploring its historical significance and the warm comfort it brings to every table.

Historical Significance of Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread

Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread isn't just a delicious treat; it's a slice of history. Here are some key points about its significance:

• It was originally made as a way to extend mealtimes and make use of scarce ingredients during challenging times.
• The recipe reflects the region’s history of trade, especially with molasses being a common trade good from the Caribbean.
• The bread has been passed down through generations, often with unique variations and family secrets, keeping the tradition alive.

Ingredients

Before diving into the step-by-step process, gather these ingredients:

How to Make Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread

Follow these steps to craft your own loaf:

1. Warm Milk: Heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave until warm but not hot (approximately 110°F or 45°C).
2. Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and raisins. Set aside.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, then add the molasses and softened butter. Mix well until you form a dough.
5. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough to release the air, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
8. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with a cloth and allow the dough to rise again for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for about 30-35 minutes. The bread is done when it's golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

🎬 Note: You can brush the top of the loaf with additional molasses before baking for a darker, richer crust.

Serving and Storing

• Serve: Slice the bread while slightly warm and serve with butter. It’s excellent with tea or as a sweet component to a breakfast platter.
• Storing: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it well to keep it fresh. It can last at room temperature for up to 3 days or be frozen for longer preservation.

As you take your first bite of this homemade Molasses Raisin Bread, you're not just enjoying a culinary delight; you're savoring a piece of history. This bread's sweet, dark flavor, punctuated by the chewiness of raisins, has warmed the hearts of many in Newfoundland for generations. Now, you too can carry on this delicious tradition or even add your own twist to keep the story alive.

Can I substitute molasses with another sweetener?

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Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as substitutes, although molasses gives the bread its distinctive rich flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover bread?

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You can reheat slices in a toaster or wrap the loaf in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

How long will the bread keep if frozen?

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Frozen, the bread can keep for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.