Sweet and Moist Boston Bread – Dive into the comforting embrace. Of homemade Sweet and Moist Boston Bread. A delightful treat. That marries the wholesomeness of wheat. With the rich, velvety sweetness of molasses and raisins. This recipe. Featuring simple ingredients. Like buttermilk, flour, and sugar. Promises a loaf. That’s not just bread. But an experience. Making it perfect for breakfast. Tea time. Or a heartwarming snack.
The first time I ventured into making this bread. It was on a whim. To surprise my family. With something sweet. Yet nutritious for our weekend brunch. The aroma filling the kitchen as it baked. Was reminiscent of cozy, old-world bakeries. My husband. Usually not one for sweets. And my child. With a discerning palate. Both fell in love at first bite. Their smiles. And the crumbs on their plates. Those were all the compliments I needed. To know this bread. Had become a family treasure.
What makes this Sweet and Moist Boston Bread truly special?
What sets this Sweet and Moist Boston Bread apart? Firstly, it’s the texture. Perfectly moist. With a tender crumb. Thanks to the buttermilk and molasses. Secondly, the use of raisins. Adds a natural sweetness. And a delightful chewiness. Lastly, its versatility. Serve it fresh out of the oven with butter. Or toast it the next day. For a comforting breakfast. This bread is not just food. It’s a slice of home.
What You Need To Make This Sweet and Moist Boston Bread Recipe?
Wheat and All-Purpose Flour: They’re like the best friends of baking. Making sure our bread has the perfect mix of heartiness and softness.
Buttermilk: This is the secret behind the bread’s irresistibly moist texture. Imagine it as a kind-hearted friend. Who makes everything better.
Raisins: These little guys are like bursts of sunshine. Bringing sweet surprises. With every bite.
Sugar: Just a touch. Enough to add a smile to your day. Without being too sweet.
Molasses: Deep and rich. It’s like the wise old story. That adds depth. And a hint of mystery to our bread.
Baking Soda & Powder: These are our little lift-givers. Ensuring our bread puffs up just right. Light and fluffy.
Egg: It’s the glue. That holds all our hopes. And ingredients together. Making sure the bread is a perfect, unified delight.
Salt: A pinch. To enhance and balance the flavors. Reminding us that a little contrast. Makes everything taste better.
Boiling Water: It’s like a warm hug for the raisins. Plumping them up. And getting them ready to be the stars they are meant to be.
Butter: The final flourish. Melting into the warm bread. Adding that creamy, comforting finish. That makes it feel like home.
Steps To Make Sweet and Moist Boston Bread:
Step 1: Start your baking journey. By heating the oven to 350º F. Whether you’re opting for the unique can method. Or a traditional loaf pan. Make sure it’s greased well. To welcome the batter.
Step 2: Give your raisins a spa treatment in boiling water. For about 10 minutes. Until they’re plump and juicy. It’s a simple step. That makes all the difference.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg to this blend. Creating the base of your bread’s structure.
Step 4: In another bowl. Mix the buttermilk and baking soda. Then introduce the molasses. It’s this mixture that will infuse your bread with its characteristic moistness. And deep flavor.
Step 5: Gently marry the wet and dry ingredients. Folding in the raisins last. This is where the magic begins. But remember. A gentle touch. Keeps the bread tender.
Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared cans or loaf pan. Only filling them halfway. To allow room for the bread to grow.
Step 7: Bake as directed. Unveiling the bread from its can. Or pan cocoon to cool. And then serve with a dollop of butter or cream cheese.
Tip:
One pro tip. For making your Sweet and Moist Boston Bread truly stand out. Is to soak your raisins. In something a little more exciting than just boiling water. Try soaking them in warm orange juice. Or even a splash of rum. Or brandy. For about 10 minutes. Before adding them to the batter. This not only plumps up the raisins. Making them juicy and tender. But also infuses them. With a delightful aromatic twist. That enhances the overall flavor of the bread. The subtle citrusy notes. Or the rich warmth of the alcohol. Will add an unexpected. And delicious complexity to your loaf. Making it even more irresistible. Just remember to warm your chosen liquid a little. As this helps to maximize the absorption. And the flavor infusion.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I substitute the molasses?
While molasses is key to the flavor profile. Honey or maple syrup can be used in a pinch. But expect a lighter taste.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap them tightly. And store at room temperature. For up to 3 days. For longer storage. Freeze slices wrapped individually.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes. Swap the buttermilk for a plant-based alternative. Mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. And use a flax egg. In place of the chicken egg.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Sweet and Moist Boston Bread
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 c wheat flour
- 2 c buttermilk
- 1/2 c all-purpose flour
- 1 c raisins
- 1/2 c sugar
- 1/2 c molasses
- 2 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 c boiling water
- Butter for garnish
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 350º F. Grease either 4-5 (15 oz.) cans or a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Soak the raisins in boiling water for 10 minutes until they plump up.
- In a large bowl, mix together the wheat and all-purpose flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat in the egg.
- In a different bowl, dissolve the baking soda in buttermilk, then mix in the molasses.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, adding the raisins last. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared cans or loaf pan, filling only halfway.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 50 minutes. If using cans, you can place another baking sheet on top to control the rise.
- Remove the top baking sheet (if using) and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool slightly before removing from cans or pan. Serve with butter or cream cheese.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
