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Anadama Bread: Hearty Cornmeal and Molasses Traditional New England Loaf Recipe

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4.3 from 69 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Anadama Bread is a traditional New England yeast bread characterized by the rich flavors of cornmeal and molasses, creating a slightly sweet and hearty loaf with a soft, tender texture. Perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, this bread combines wholesome ingredients in a simple yet flavorful recipe.

Ingredients

Liquid Mixture

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup molasses
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Dry Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cook Cornmeal Mixture: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan, then stir in 1/2 cup cornmeal. Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens, ensuring the cornmeal is fully hydrated and the consistency is smooth.
  2. Add Flavorings: Remove the pan from heat and mix in 1/3 cup molasses, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to cool until it’s warm to the touch but not hot, which will help activate the yeast later.
  3. Add Yeast: Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast over the warm cornmeal mixture and stir to incorporate. Let it sit briefly so the yeast can begin to activate.
  4. Form Dough: Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a dough starts to form. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
  5. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. Proper kneading develops the gluten and texture of the bread.
  6. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  7. Shape Loaf: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release gases. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan, ensuring even distribution.
  8. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan and allow the dough to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until it puffs up noticeably.
  9. Bake Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and cool it on a wire rack before slicing. Serving warm with butter enhances the bread’s rich flavors.

Notes

  • Molasses gives the bread its signature deep, slightly sweet flavor and rich color.
  • Use fresh, active yeast for the best rise and texture.
  • For a softer crust, brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
  • Best served warm with butter to appreciate the bread’s full flavor and soft texture.
  • Store leftover bread in an airtight container; it also freezes well for longer storage.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://cookingmomy.com/anadama-bread-hearty-cornmeal-and-molasses-traditional-new-england-loaf-recipe/