Anadama Bread

There’s something magical about the scent of fresh bread baking in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, nostalgia, and anticipation. Anadama Bread, with its rich molasses flavor and hearty cornmeal texture, is one of those recipes that instantly transports you to a simpler time. Whether slathered with butter or toasted to golden perfection, this New England molasses cornmeal bread has a way of bringing comfort to every bite.

I still remember the first time I made Anadama Bread. My grandmother, a lifelong baker, stood beside me, guiding my hands as I kneaded the dough. She told me stories of how this bread was a staple in her childhood home, often served with soups on cold winter nights. The smell of molasses and cornmeal baking together became a tradition—one that I carry on today. Every loaf I make reminds me of those precious moments in the kitchen, where baking was more than just a task; it was a way to connect with history and loved ones.

Why You’ll Love Anadama Bread

• Easy to Make: Requires simple pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of molasses and cornmeal creates a deep, slightly sweet taste.
• Perfect Texture: Soft and fluffy on the inside, with a slightly crisp crust.
• Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toast, and as a side for soups and stews.
• Historic Charm: A beloved New England bread recipe with a fascinating background.

The History of Anadama Bread

What is Anadama Bread?

Anadama Bread is a traditional New England yeast bread made with cornmeal, molasses, and flour. This unique combination results in a soft yet hearty loaf with a slightly sweet flavor.

Why is it Called Anadama Bread?

Legend has it that a fisherman’s wife named Anna frequently made plain cornmeal porridge. One day, frustrated with his monotonous meals, her husband added molasses and flour to the porridge, baked it into a loaf, and exclaimed, “Anna, damn her!”—thus, the name Anadama Bread was born.

Interestingly, New England’s culinary history also includes classics like Philly Cheesesteak Pizza, which showcases the region’s love for comforting, hearty meals.

How Does Anadama Bread Taste?

The flavor profile is mildly sweet and nutty, thanks to the molasses and cornmeal. It has a tender crumb, making it an excellent choice for toasting or serving with butter and jam.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Anadama Bread

First: Gather Your Ingredients

For this homemade Anadama bread recipe, you’ll need:

• 3/4 cup (113g) yellow cornmeal
• 1 1/4 teaspoons (8g) table salt
• 3 tablespoons (43g) butter
• 1/4 cup (85g) molasses (dark preferred)
• 1 to 1 1/4 cups (227g to 255g) boiling water
• 1/4 cup (28g) dry milk powder
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (113g) whole wheat flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast

Second: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine cornmeal and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Add butter and molasses, then pour in boiling water. Stir until smooth and let it cool to lukewarm.
3. Mix in the dry milk, flours, and yeast. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes to absorb the liquid.

Third: Knead and Proof the Dough

1. Knead for 7 minutes using a stand mixer or by hand until smooth.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Many bread recipes, such as the comforting Crockpot Beef and Noodles, pair exceptionally well with homemade breads like this one.

Fourth: Shape and Second Rise

1. Gently deflate the dough and shape it into an 8-inch log.
2. Place it in a greased 8 1/2” x 4 1/2” loaf pan.
3. Cover and let it rise for 90 minutes, until it rises 1 inch above the pan’s rim.

Fifth: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until an inserted thermometer reads 190°F.
3. Let the bread cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion

Anadama Bread is a classic New England recipe that’s easy to make and rich in flavor. With its soft crumb, slightly sweet taste, and hearty texture, it’s the perfect bread for sandwiches, soups, or enjoying with a pat of butter.

Now that you have the perfect recipe, why not give it a try? Leave a comment below and let us know how your Anadama Bread turned out! Happy baking!

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