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Old Anadama Bread Recipe (1920)

This classic New England yeast bread has been around since at least the early 1900s, offering a unique blend of rich molasses sweetness, hearty cornmeal texture, and wholesome wheat flavors.
Said to have originated from a fisherman’s frustration with his wife’s cooking, this bread remains a soft and flavorful slice of history.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 55 minutes
Course Bread

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup yellow cornmeal
  • ⅓ cup molasses
  • 3 tablespoons butter softened
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions
 

  • In a heatproof bowl, mix the cornmeal, molasses, butter, and salt. Pour in the boiling water, stirring well until the butter fully melts. Let it sit until the mixture is lukewarm.
  • Once cooled, add the yeast and let it rest for about 5 minutes to activate.
  • Stir in the beaten egg and whole wheat flour, then beat the mixture thoroughly for a few minutes.
  • Gradually work in the all-purpose flour, kneading the dough in the bowl until it forms a smooth, elastic ball.
  • Cover the bowl with a towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for 30 to 40 minutes.
  • Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface, shaping it into a log that fits a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Position the dough seam-side down.
  • Let the dough rise again in a warm area for 1 to 1½ hours, until it expands above the edges of the pan.
  • Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the loaf turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Immediately transfer to a wire rack and allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • This bread is an excellent companion to stews, chowders, or simply served warm with butter.
  • To enhance the old-fashioned flavor, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with more whole wheat flour.
  • If a slightly softer crust is preferred, brush the top with melted butter after baking.
Keyword colonial bread recipe, early 1900s bread, easy yeast bread, historical bread recipes, New England Anadama bread, old recipes, old-fashioned bread recipe, Rockport Anadama loaf, traditional homemade bread, vintage molasses bread
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