Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re diving into the delightful world of Dandelion Bread! This unique recipe has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of sunny afternoons spent foraging in my grandmother’s garden. The aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with the earthy scent of dandelion greens creates a comforting atmosphere that feels like home. Dandelion Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of nature’s bounty, transforming humble greens into a deliciously moist loaf. Join me as we explore this nutritious and flavorful bread that’s perfect for any occasion!

What is Dandelion Bread?

Dandelion Bread is a unique and nutritious loaf that incorporates the often-overlooked dandelion greens. Originating from various cultures that embrace foraged ingredients, this bread showcases the versatility of dandelions, which are packed with vitamins and minerals. Traditionally, dandelions have been used in salads and teas, but this recipe elevates them into a delightful bread that’s both flavorful and wholesome. The combination of earthy greens and sweet bread creates a harmonious balance, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Dandelion Bread

Convenient: Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for busy weeknights.
Tasty: A delightful blend of sweet and earthy flavors that the whole family will enjoy.
Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients, dandelion greens are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Family Appeal: A fun way to introduce kids to foraged ingredients and healthy eating.

Who It’s For

This Dandelion Bread is ideal for busy families looking for nutritious meal options, health-conscious cooks eager to incorporate more greens into their diets, and food lovers who enjoy exploring unique flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

When to Cook It

Enjoy Dandelion Bread during weeknight dinners as a side dish, at family gatherings for a unique twist, or even as a special treat for brunch. It’s versatile enough to complement a variety of meals, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with whole wheat flour for added fiber)
1 cup dandelion greens, chopped (ensure they are thoroughly washed; can use spinach if unavailable)
1/2 cup milk (dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk work well)
1/4 cup sugar (for a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar)
1/4 cup butter, melted (coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version)
1 egg (flaxseed meal mixed with water can be a vegan substitute)
1 tablespoon baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for best results)
1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt enhances flavor)

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth and creamy.
Combine mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Add dandelion greens: Fold in the chopped dandelion greens, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Cool and serve: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for reducing sugar intake.
Monk fruit: Another zero-calorie option that adds sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste of sugar without the same impact on blood glucose.

It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels despite being natural sweeteners.

Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Whisk
Spatula
Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven mitts
Wire rack for cooling

Use Fresh Dandelion Greens: Chef Alice Waters emphasizes the importance of using fresh, young dandelion greens for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, tender leaves.
Experiment with Herbs: Chef Thomas Keller suggests adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor profile of your Dandelion Bread. A little fresh herb can elevate the dish!
Don’t Overmix: Renowned baker Peter Reinhart advises against overmixing the batter. Gently combine the ingredients to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Let It Rest: Chef Julia Child recommends letting the batter rest for about 10 minutes before baking. This allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in a better texture.
Pair with Spreads: Chef Ina Garten suggests serving Dandelion Bread with homemade herb butter or a light cream cheese spread to complement its earthy flavors.

Room Temperature: Store Dandelion Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, keep the bread in the fridge for up to a week. Wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to grab a slice whenever you crave it!
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: For a quick option, microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as it may become chewy.

Using Old Dandelion Greens: Always opt for fresh, young greens. Older leaves can be bitter and tough, affecting the overall taste of your bread.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense bread. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a light, fluffy texture.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bread to cool before slicing is crucial. Cutting too soon can result in a gummy texture and uneven slices.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are key. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking and undesirable results.

Can I use other greens instead of dandelion greens in Dandelion Bread? Yes, you can substitute dandelion greens with spinach or kale for a similar texture and flavor.
Is Dandelion Bread suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Dandelion Bread is a vegetarian recipe, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
Can I make Dandelion Bread gluten-free? It depends; you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary from the original recipe.
Does Dandelion Bread taste bitter? No, when prepared correctly, Dandelion Bread has a pleasant balance of sweet and earthy flavors, with no bitterness.
Can I add nuts or seeds to Dandelion Bread? Yes, adding nuts or seeds can enhance the texture and flavor, making it even more nutritious!

In conclusion, Dandelion Bread is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of nature while nourishing your body. Its unique combination of sweet and earthy notes makes it a versatile addition to any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family so they can discover the joys of Dandelion Bread too!

Dandelion Bread

Author: Goldie Clark
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A unique and nutritious bread made with dandelion greens.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup dandelion greens, chopped
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 egg
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fold in the chopped dandelion greens.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before slicing and serving.

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Notes

Ensure the dandelion greens are thoroughly washed.
For a sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1/2 cup.
This bread can be served warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Dandelion Bread