As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Finally made a Boston Bread loaf. Enjoying a hot cuppa of classic chai tea with buttered Boston Bread loaf. Tastes divine and yummy.
Some History regarding Boston Bread
Boston Brown Bread has a rich history that dates back to Colonial New England. Early New Englanders needed bread that could be made with the limited resources they had. They used a mixture of three flours – corn, rye, and whole wheat – to make what is now known as Boston Brown Bread. This bread was usually steamed in a pudding mold or a can, which gave it a unique shape.
The origins of the name “brown bread” are not entirely clear. Some say it is because of the dark color of the bread, which is due to the molasses used in the recipe. Others believe it is because the bread is made with whole wheat flour, which gives it a brownish hue.
Over time, Boston Brown Bread became a staple in New England households. It was often served with baked beans, a traditional New England dish. The bread was also popular during the Civil War, when soldiers would carry cans of Boston Brown Bread with them on long marches.
Today, Boston Brown Bread is not as widely consumed as it once was. However, it is still enjoyed by many people, especially those who have a connection to New England. Some companies still sell the bread in cans, while others offer mixes that can be made at home. Despite its decline in popularity, Boston Brown Bread remains a beloved part of New England’s culinary heritage.
Types of Boston Bread
Boston Brown Bread is a traditional bread that originated in New England in the 17th century. It is a dark, dense bread that is made from a combination of flours such as rye, whole wheat, and cornmeal, and is sweetened with molasses. There are several variations of Boston Brown Bread, including:
- Steamed Boston Brown Bread: This is the most traditional version of Boston Brown Bread. The batter is poured into coffee cans and steamed in a large kettle until cooked through. This method gives the bread a moist and tender texture.
- Baked Boston Brown Bread: This version is baked in the oven instead of being steamed. It is usually made in a loaf pan and has a slightly different texture than the steamed version.
- Boston Quick Bread: Also known as New England Brown Bread, this is a quick and easy version of Boston Brown Bread that is leavened with baking powder instead of yeast. It is a lighter and sweeter version of the traditional bread.
- Boston Brown Bread Muffins: This is a fun and convenient way to enjoy Boston Brown Bread. The batter is baked in muffin tins instead of being steamed or baked in a loaf pan. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Conclusion on Boston Bread
Overall, Boston Brown Bread is a unique and delicious bread that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer the traditional steamed version or a quick and easy version, there is a Boston Brown Bread recipe that will suit your taste.
PrintEasy Tasty and Delicious Boston Bread Loaf in a Can
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 depending on size 1x
- Category: Cake, Cupcakes, Cookies and Tarts
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: New England
Description
Calling all bread lovers! Try our delicious Boston Bread Loaf in a can. This classic New England favorite is packed with flavor and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family breakfast or a cozy evening snack.
Ingredients
- 60 g butter
- 180 g dates soak in 1 cup boiled water with 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 200 g dark brown sugar
- 300 g self-raising flour
- 1 egg
- 30 ml golden syrup
- 60 ml sultanas
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 20 Walnuts
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar
- Add beaten egg.
- Add dates water, golden syrup, and sultanas
- Add dry ingredients.
- Spray and cook a tin (like a baked bean tin or creamed corn tin) fill the tins halfway not full as it will cook over.
- Bake at 180°C / 350°F plus minus 40 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Put the tin upright in the oven.
- Serve with butter.
- Enjoy
Notes
Prepared, tried, and tested by Feriel of The Recipe Hunter: Tried and Tested Recipes from Home Chefs and SA Tasty Recipes – Saffas Daily Recipes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 554
- Sugar: 68.8 g
- Sodium: 237.3 mg
- Fat: 5.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 130.5 g
- Fiber: 12.4 g
- Protein: 7.9 g
- Cholesterol: 11.6 mg
Copyright © 2024 esmesalon.com – All rights reserved.
Interesting, I have never heard of Boston Bread before, and how neat it was baked in a can! Who knew? Your recipe sounds pretty good. I am betting I could try it with gluten free flour? Thanks for sharing your creativity Esme!
Hi Cara. Thanks for stopping by and yes I am sure GF should work, although I have not tested it myself as yet. Should you do test it out please let me know how you modified the recipe to GF and how it turned out. Enjoy it
Hi Esme,
This is similar to our Date loaf here in Australia that used to be baked in a round cylinder tin too.
I have converted our recipe into a gluten free version (as I’m Celiac) & often bake it for hubby & I to have with our cuppa’s.
Visiting from Stephanie’s table today where we’re sitting together. 😊
Blessings, Jennifer
Hi Jennifer. Wow good to hear that you use a similar recipe. Do you have it on your blog perhaps as I would love to link to it as others may wish to try your GF version.
Thanks for stopping by here.
I have never heard of Boston Brown Bread Esme, thanks for sharing this recipe with us at the SSPS #284
Hi Julie. Thanks for popping in here and I hope you will try this Boston Bread Loaf. Easy to make and very enjoyable with a cuppa tea or coffee.
We have always lived just about an hour outside of Boston and while I have always heard about Boston Brown Bread I have never actually had any! Thanks for sharing your recipe with us.
Hi Joanne, now then you will just have to try out this easy Boston Bread as soon as possible, and hopefully you will enjoy it.
It looks pretty easy to do! Thanks for sharing at the What’s for Dinner party – Hope you have a fabulous week!
You’re so welcome Helen, thanks for having us over to share with you and popping in here. Wishing you a fantastic week ahead
I’ve never had brown bread, but it looks absolutely amazing! I need to try this recipe! I bet it would be perfect with all my favorite soups and stews during the fall and winter.
Hi Jen. Thanks for dropping in. Just so you know this is a sweet bread and not a regular bread. This is best used with tea or coffee as a treat and not with soup. Sorry for any confusion caused, unless you obviously prefer a sweet bread with your soup. This one has dates, sultanas and nuts added
Hi Esme,
This looks so delicious. A perfect bread for fall. Thank you for sharing!
You’re so welcome Laura. Hope you will have a go and bake one at home. Enjoy
Such an interesting history to this bread!
Morning Amy, Thank you for your kind words and reading the history of the Boston Bread Loaf. Hope you will try it and above all enjoy it.