Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread

Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread Recipe | Vegan Bread Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread is a delightful and nutritious treat that combines the tangy sweetness of blueberries and the crunchy texture of walnuts with the subtle aroma of black tea. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a less sweet, more sophisticated type of bread that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a healthy breakfast option, a mid-afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this tea bread is sure to satisfy.

History

The tradition of tea bread dates back to the early 18th century in England, where it was served during afternoon tea as a light snack. Over the years, tea bread has evolved, incorporating various ingredients according to local tastes and available produce. The Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread is a modern take on this classic, introducing blueberries and walnuts for added flavor and nutritional benefits, while the inclusion of black tea pays homage to the recipe's origins.

Ingredients

1 medium-sized granny smith apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 tbsp lemon juice
0.5 cup dried blueberries
2.25 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
0.33 cup oat bran
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.13 tsp ground nutmeg
1.75 tsp baking powder
1.75 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp sea salt
0.5 cup brewed black tea
0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup evaporated cane juice
1 tbsp egg replacer powder
0.25 cup water
0.75 cup enriched soymilk (1 percent fat)
0.25 tbsp pure vanilla extract
0.25 cup chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with olive oil. Place apple slices in a bowl and toss with lemon juice.
Add blueberries and set aside. In a medium bowl, combine flour, oat bran, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, blend applesauce with cane juice. In a liquid measuring cup, stir together egg replacer powder and water using a fork or wire whisk. Add the egg replacer powder mixture, half a cup of tea, soymilk, and vanilla to the applesauce.
Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, adding the apple-blueberry mixture halfway through before the ingredients are fully combined. Stir just until blended, being careful not to overbeat.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with walnuts. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Variations

Consider adding orange zest for a citrusy twist, or substitute raspberries for blueberries for a different flavor profile. For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh or frozen blueberries; if using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent discoloration.

- Sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a uniform texture.

- Do not overmix the batter; stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender.

- Check the bread 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time, as oven temperatures can vary.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this bread slightly warmed with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, requiring precise temperature control and timing to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version, substitute the enriched fat with coconut oil or another plant-based fat. If you don't have evaporated cane juice, regular granulated sugar or coconut sugar are suitable alternatives.

Make Ahead Tips

This bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the bread and arrange it on a wooden board for a rustic look, garnishing with fresh blueberries and mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this tea bread with a light-bodied black tea or a creamy latte to complement its flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a suitable option for a snack or part of a balanced meal, providing energy without being overly calorific.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the all-purpose flour, oat bran, dried blueberries, and evaporated cane juice, providing energy for your day.

Fats

This tea bread contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the enriched fat and walnuts. These fats include a mix of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats, contributing to the bread's moist texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread offers around 5 grams of protein. The protein sources in this recipe include the oat bran and walnuts, making it a modest but valuable contributor to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E from the walnuts, vitamin C from the lemon juice and blueberries, and iron and calcium from the enriched fat and oat bran. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as wheat (gluten) and nuts (walnuts). It's also important to note the use of egg replacer for those with egg allergies, making this recipe adaptable for those avoiding eggs.

Summary

Overall, Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread is a nutritious option that balances carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome choice for those looking for a healthier bread option.

Summary

Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread is a versatile and nutritious recipe that combines the classic flavors of blueberries and walnuts with the comforting aroma of black tea. Perfect for any time of day, this bread offers a balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a delightful addition to your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook at a thrift store. The pages were yellowed and fragile, but the words jumped out at me - Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread.

I have always been drawn to recipes that combine sweet and savory flavors, and this one seemed to fit the bill perfectly. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the warm, buttery bread with bursts of juicy blueberries and crunchy walnuts.

I brought the cookbook home and immediately set to work gathering the ingredients. The recipe called for simple, wholesome items that I already had in my pantry - flour, sugar, blueberries, walnuts, and a few other basics. As I mixed everything together in a large bowl, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and cinnamon.

While the bread baked in the oven, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had collected over the years. Some had been passed down from my own mother, while others had been learned from friends and neighbors. Each recipe held a story, a memory of a special moment shared over a delicious meal.

As the timer dinged, signaling that the bread was done, I eagerly pulled it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. The loaf was golden brown and studded with plump blueberries and crunchy walnuts. I couldn't wait to slice into it and take a bite.

The first taste was pure bliss. The bread was moist and tender, with the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The blueberries burst in my mouth, releasing their juicy flavor, while the walnuts added a satisfying crunch. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

I shared the Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread with my family and friends, who all raved about its delicious flavor. They couldn't believe that such a simple recipe could yield such a delectable treat. I was proud to pass on the recipe to anyone who asked, knowing that it would bring joy to their tables as well.

Over the years, I have made the Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread countless times, each batch reminding me of that fateful day when I discovered the recipe. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, enjoyed on lazy Sunday mornings with a cup of hot tea or shared with neighbors during the holidays.

As I sit here now, savoring a slice of the bread with a dollop of creamy butter, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes that have brought warmth and comfort to my home. Each one tells a story, a tale of love and connection that transcends time and space.

And so, as I continue to cook and bake for my loved ones, I carry on the tradition of sharing recipes and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The Blueberry-Walnut Tea Bread will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple joys that come from a homemade meal made with love.