All Bran Bread

All Bran Bread Recipe: A Delicious and Wholesome Treat

Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 2 loaves

Introduction

All Bran Bread is a wholesome, fiber-rich recipe that transforms the humble breakfast cereal into a delicious, nutritious loaf. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add more fiber to their diet without sacrificing taste. The unique combination of All-Bran cereal with mixed dried fruits and the subtle sweetness of golden syrup makes this bread not only a healthy option but also a delightful treat for any time of the day.

History

The history of All Bran Bread traces back to the early 20th century when bran was first recognized for its health benefits, particularly for digestive health. Over the years, home bakers and health enthusiasts began experimenting with bran in baking, leading to the creation of various bran-based recipes. This All Bran Bread recipe is a modern take on those early experiments, combining traditional ingredients with the nutritional powerhouse of All-Bran cereal to create a delicious and healthful bread.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of All-bran cereal
12 oz (340 g) of hot strong tea
1 egg
12 oz (340 g) of cake and pastry flour
1 tsp of baking powder
6 tbsp of golden syrup
12 oz (340 g) of mixed dried fruit
1 pinch of salt

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine dried fruit and bran.
Pour hot tea over the mixture and let it stand covered overnight.
In the morning, add egg, flour, salt, and syrup. Mix well, then divide the mixture between 2 well-greased loaf pans.
Bake at 350°F for 55 minutes.
Allow the loaves to cool slightly in the pans, then turn them out onto cooling racks.
Serve the bread sliced and buttered.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a vegan-friendly syrup.
Add nuts or seeds (such as walnuts or sunflower seeds) for extra texture and nutrition.
Swap the mixed dried fruits for your favorite dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your All Bran Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips and tricks:

- Soak the bran and dried fruit in hot tea overnight to soften them, which makes the bread moist.

- Use cake and pastry flour for a lighter, more tender crumb.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep the bread from becoming tough.

- Check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto cooling racks to prevent breaking.

Serving Suggestions

All Bran Bread can be enjoyed in various ways:

- Sliced and buttered for a simple, satisfying snack.

- Toasted with a spread of cream cheese and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory breakfast.

- Accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.

- As a base for an open-faced sandwich topped with avocado and poached eggs for a nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the soaking of the bran and dried fruits in hot tea, which softens them and infuses the bread with moisture and flavor. Another important technique is the gentle folding of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to prevent overmixing, which ensures a tender crumb.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the golden syrup with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.

- Use whole wheat flour instead of cake and pastry flour for an even higher fiber content (note that this will result in a denser bread).

- Replace the hot tea with hot coffee for a deeper flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The soaked bran and fruit mixture can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Additionally, the baked bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of All Bran Bread on a wooden cutting board for a rustic look, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries for a touch of elegance. For a brunch spread, arrange slices alongside a variety of jams, butters, and spreads for guests to customize their servings.

Pairing Recommendations

All Bran Bread pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Try it with a sharp cheddar cheese for a satisfying contrast, or with a sweet fruit compote for a delightful treat. For beverages, a robust black tea or a creamy latte complements the flavors of the bread beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover All Bran Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, toast slices in a toaster or warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of All Bran Bread contains approximately 250 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the carbohydrates, with a small contribution from proteins and fats. This makes it a suitable option for a hearty snack or part of a balanced breakfast.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of All Bran Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the flour, dried fruits, and golden syrup, providing a good source of energy. The dietary fiber from the All-Bran cereal and dried fruits also contributes to the total carbohydrate content, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Fats

This bread is relatively low in fats, with each serving containing about 2 grams of fat. The minimal fat content comes primarily from the egg and the small amount of fat naturally present in the All-Bran cereal. This makes All Bran Bread a suitable option for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

All Bran Bread provides a modest amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 5 grams. The protein sources in this recipe include the egg and a small amount from the All-Bran cereal and flour. While not high in protein, this bread can be part of a balanced meal when paired with a protein-rich accompaniment.

Vitamins and minerals

All Bran Bread is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, thanks to the All-Bran cereal and dried fruits. These nutrients play vital roles in energy metabolism, oxygen transport, and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including gluten (from flour and possibly the All-Bran cereal) and eggs. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

All Bran Bread is a nutritious, fiber-rich bread that offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and fats, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

All Bran Bread is a versatile, nutritious recipe that offers a delicious way to incorporate more fiber into your diet. With its rich history, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it's a wonderful addition to any meal, whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast option or a satisfying snack. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a staple in your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold close to my heart. It all began many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother.

I remember the day vividly. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the scent of freshly baked bread wafted through the air as I entered my grandmother's cozy kitchen. She was busy kneading dough at the kitchen table, her hands expertly shaping the dough into loaves with practiced ease.

Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she smiled warmly at me before revealing her secret recipe for All Bran Bread. She explained that this particular recipe had been passed down through generations in our family, and each woman had added her own unique touch to it over the years.

Intrigued, I watched as my grandmother worked her magic, adding a generous amount of All Bran cereal to the dough along with other simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and honey. She kneaded the dough with a gentle touch, her hands moving in a rhythmic motion that seemed almost hypnotic to me.

As the bread baked in the oven, the warm, comforting aroma filled the kitchen, creating a sense of home and belonging that I had never experienced before. I realized in that moment that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about creating something special that would nourish both body and soul.

When the bread was finally ready, my grandmother sliced a thick piece for me to try. The crust was golden and crisp, while the crumb was soft and tender, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on my tongue. It was unlike any bread I had ever tasted before, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of All Bran Bread, experimenting with different variations and flavors until I found the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Each time I bake a loaf, I am transported back to that fateful day in my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by love and tradition.

Now, as I pass down the recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will cherish the memory of learning to make All Bran Bread with me. May it always bring them comfort and joy, just as it has done for me all these years. And may they remember the love and tradition that goes into every loaf, connecting us to our past and our future in a deliciously simple way.