Newfoundland molasses sweet bread is a beloved homemade bread known for its rich molasses flavor, soft texture, and comforting aroma. Traditionally baked during holidays and special family gatherings, this bread has long been a staple in Newfoundland kitchens.
Slightly sweet, warmly spiced, and often filled with raisins, this bread is delicious served warm with butter melting into every slice. The deep flavor of molasses gives it its signature dark color and nostalgic taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy with rich molasses flavor
- Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or holidays
- Delicious toasted with butter
- Traditional homemade comfort food
Ingredients
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 8 cups all-purpose flour (approximately)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups lukewarm milk
- 1 cup molasses
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 cups raisins
Optional:
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, stir sugar into the lukewarm water.
Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let stand for about 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine about 3 cups of the flour with the salt.
Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, molasses, melted butter, and beaten eggs.
Mix until smooth.
3. Add Remaining Flour
Gradually mix in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable.
4. Add the Raisins
Fold in the raisins and knead gently until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic
6. First Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1–1½ hours.
7. Shape the Loaves
Punch down the dough and divide into loaf pans or shape into rounds.
Cover and let rise again until puffy and nearly doubled.
8. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the loaves are deep golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Serve
Brush tops with butter while warm for a softer crust.
Cool slightly before slicing.
Texture & Flavor
This bread is:
- Soft and slightly dense
- Rich with deep molasses sweetness
- Filled with juicy raisins
- Warmly spiced and comforting
Tips for Best Results
- Use lukewarm liquids, not hot
- Do not add too much flour—the dough should stay soft
- Soak raisins beforehand for extra moisture
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing
How to Store
- Room temperature: Store tightly wrapped for up to 3 days
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Toast or warm slices before serving
A Newfoundland Tradition
Molasses sweet bread has been part of Newfoundland baking traditions for generations. Often enjoyed during Christmas and family gatherings, the smell of this bread baking is deeply tied to memories of home and comfort.
Newfoundland molasses sweet bread is rich, soft, and full of old-fashioned flavor. Whether served warm with butter or toasted the next morning, it’s a timeless homemade bread that always brings comfort to the table.
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