The squaw bread recipe is a thick, rustic bread that has a long tradition, combining sweetness and heartiness. Traditionally made with a mixture of whole wheat flour and molasses and often given a slight taste of cocoa, this bread has a distinct flavour. This flipper flattened dense texture bread is perfect for slathering butter, cheese, or spreads; its natural sweetness from the molasses adds a unique taste to the bread. Its origins can be traced to Indigenous communities, where it was an essential part of daily meals, as well as early settlers who adopted and adapted it.
Nowadays, squaw bread is still very much in vogue for all those at home with the hearty texture and the slightly sweet, earthy taste. Try it for sandwiches, alongside soups or just toasted with a drizzle of honey. Because it is a comfort food of sorts, squaw bread shines when you make it yourself fresh from this oven. It’s a recipe steeped in history and flavour, and it’s still that recipe today, one proudly handed down.
What is Squaw Bread?
Squaw bread is a dense, slightly sweet bread that has been enjoyed for hundreds of years. Traditionally prepared with whole wheat flour, molasses and, in some cases, cocoa powder, this bread has an intense flavour and a hearty, gratifying texture. It has a wholesome ingredient list and a naturally sweet taste that makes it a great addition to a variety of meals. Squaw bread was originally a staple among Indigenous communities, who would bake the bread with ingredients found in their local ecology is no exception. And later adopted by early settlers in North America.
While the exact origins of squaw bread vary depending on the region, it has always been celebrated for its richness and hearty texture. The deep flavour from the molasses and whole grains gives the bread its unique, earthy sweetness, making it different from lighter, fluffier white bread.
Ingredients for Squaw Bread
To make squaw bread, you’ll need a few simple, staple ingredients. The key components include:
- Whole Wheat Flour: This whole wheat flour will create the base of your squaw bread and give it that dense texture & earthy flavour.
- Molasses: Provides a full-bodied sweetness and a bit of a smoky flavour to the loaf. Molasses, too, adds to the deep colour of the loaf.
- Cocoa Powder: Not always necessary, but adding cocoa powder can provide an additional layer of flavour as well as a hint of chocolate.
- Baking powder or yeast: This is what makes the bread rise and yields that characteristic texture.
- Water or Milk: These are needed to bring the dough together.
- Salt: To enhance the overall flavour of the bread.
The ingredients are simple but come together to create a rich, flavorful bread that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Health Benefits of Squaw Bread Recipe
Squaw bread gets its name from its two main ingredients, whole wheat flour and molasses, both of which have health benefits. It contains fibre. Whole wheat flour is high in fibre, which can help with digestion, blood sugar control, and satiety. Squaw bread has molasses in it, which contains plenty of essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium that help overall well-being.
As squaw bread is dense and hearty, it is also more filling and is a good choice for sustaining energy through a long day than lighter white bread. The high fibre content helps with satiety, which can help control appetite and prevent overeating.
Here’s a detailed health benefits table for squaw bread, focusing on its key ingredients like whole wheat flour and molasses, which provide various nutrients and benefits:
Health Benefits of Squaw Bread
| Nutrient | Amount (per 1 slice) | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~120-140 kcal | Provides energy for the body, essential for daily activities. |
| Total Fat | ~3g | Contains healthy fats that contribute to cell function and energy storage. |
| Saturated Fat | ~0.5g | Minimal saturated fat helps support heart health when consumed in moderation. |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g | Provides a quick source of energy, particularly from the whole wheat flour, which is rich in fiber. |
| Dietary Fiber | ~3g | Promotes healthy digestion, helps maintain blood sugar levels, and supports heart health. |
| Sugars | ~5g | Natural sugars from molasses and cocoa contribute to a slight sweetness while offering energy. |
| Protein | ~4g | Supports muscle growth, repair, and overall body functions. |
| Iron | ~1.5mg | Helps carry oxygen in the blood, supports energy production, and strengthens the immune system. |
| Magnesium | ~25mg | Vital for muscle function, energy production, and bone health. |
| Calcium | ~30mg | Important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and supports nerve function. |
| Potassium | ~100mg | Helps regulate fluid balance, supports proper muscle and nerve function. |
| Antioxidants | Moderate | Cocoa provides antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage. |
Variations of Squaw Bread
While the traditional squaw bread recipe calls for whole wheat flour and molasses, you can modify the bread to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some variations you can try:
- Sweetened Squaw Bread: Add a little more molasses or even some brown sugar for a more prosperous, sweeter taste if that appeals to you.
- Nutty Squaw Bread: Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy texture and a little extra flavour.
- Spiced Squaw Bread: Add your favourite spices like ground cinnamon, nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for warm, spiced bread.
These versions allow for infinite variations of the recipe to perfect your style.
Why You Should Make Squaw Bread at Home
Milling squaw bread recipe at home is a valuable activity. Not only do you get the delicious smells of making fresh bread, but you also control what goes into your bread. Making bread from scratch is a way to be sure that it is free of preservatives and made with natural, good-for-you ingredients.
Homemade squaw bread is also great served at any meal, perfect with soups and stews, accompanying sandwiches, or as a snack with a pat of butter. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, squaw bread is a satisfying, nutritious choice that brings both flavour and history to your table.
Serving Suggestions for Squaw Bread recipe
Squaw bread’s rich, hearty texture makes it perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy your homemade loaf:
- With Butter: The easiest, most delicious way to eat squaw bread is with a smear of butter. The sweetness and density of the bread work beautifully with the creamy mouthfeel of butter.
- As Sandwiches: Squaw bread is strong enough to withstand whatever filling you throw at it, be it for a savoury deli sandwich or a heartier affair like pulled pork or a veggie-heavy sandwich.
- With Soups and Stews: Pair squaw bread with a warm bowl of soup or stew for a filling, comforting meal. The bread’s hearty nature makes it a perfect accompaniment to rich broths and thick stews.
Final Thoughts on Squaw Bread
Squaw bread is a delicious, wholesome recipe that has stood the test of time. Its unique flavor, dense texture, and rich history make it a memorable addition to any meal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with variations, squaw bread will always be a comforting, satisfying bread that can be enjoyed year-round. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can bring a slice of history into your home with this easy-to-make recipe.
Squaw Bread recipe From OoohDelish!
Squaw Bread Recipe
Equipment
- 2 Mixing bowls
- 1 Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- 1 Wooden spoon or dough hook (for mixing)
- 1 Oven – Preheated to 350°F (175°C).
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water 110°F / 43°C
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk or non-dairy milk, if preferred
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir till dissolved and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda and whisk together.
- Make the dough: To the dry ingredients, add the activated yeast mixture, molasses, vegetable oil and milk. Using a wooden spoon, stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too tacky, sprinkle in a touch more flour until the dough is workable.
- Knead the dough: Remove the dough and knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
- First rise: Put the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and then place it in a warm place for about 1 hour to let it rise until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: After the dough rises, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Form it into a loaf and transfer it to a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes or until it has risen above the top of the loaf pan.
- Bake the bread: Instructions for the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The top should be deep golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Cool the bread in the pan, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool before slicing. Enjoy fresh or toasted!
Notes
If you prefer a denser texture, reduce the yeast slightly.
This bread can be enjoyed fresh, but it also makes fantastic toast.
FAQs: Squaw Bread recipe
Where to buy squaw bread?
Squaw bread can typically be found in specialty bakeries, artisan bread shops, and some grocery stores that offer a selection of freshly baked breads. Larger supermarket chains may carry it in their bread section, especially in areas with a demand for rustic or traditional breads. If you’re unable to find it locally, consider purchasing from online retailers that specialize in artisan bread delivery or baking it yourself at home.
Is squaw bread good for diabetics?
Squaw bread can be a better option for diabetics compared to white bread because it is often made with whole wheat flour, which has a lower glycemic index. However, due to the molasses and sometimes added sugar, it can still raise blood sugar levels. It’s important for individuals with diabetes to consume squaw bread in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider to determine how it fits into their dietary plan.
What is squaw bread?
Squaw bread is a dense, slightly sweet bread typically made with whole wheat flour, molasses, and sometimes cocoa. It has a rich, earthy flavor and a darker color, making it a unique alternative to regular white bread. The bread’s hearty texture and natural sweetness from molasses make it a favorite for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to soups and stews.
Does squaw bread have dairy?
Traditional squaw bread recipes do not typically contain dairy products. The bread is made with ingredients like whole wheat flour, molasses, and water. However, some variations of the recipe may include butter or milk. If you’re concerned about dairy, it’s always best to check the specific recipe or ask at the bakery.
Does squaw bread have gluten?
Yes, squaw bread typically contains gluten because it is made with whole wheat flour, which contains gluten. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you will need to look for a specific gluten-free version of squaw bread or make your own using gluten-free flour alternatives.
Does squaw bread have milk?
Most traditional squaw bread recipes do not include milk as a main ingredient. However, some variations might use milk or milk products like butter to enrich the dough. If you’re avoiding milk, be sure to check the recipe or ask the baker to ensure it’s milk-free.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear your version of Squaw Bread recipe! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!
References
Try our recipes from OoohDelish!