Classic Oatmeal Bread

There’s something wonderfully comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Classic Oatmeal Bread is a deliciously hearty option that captures that warm, homey feeling. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike!

Why This Recipe Works

Classic Oatmeal Bread combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the soft texture of bread. The boiling water helps to soften the oats, allowing them to meld beautifully with the dough. The addition of brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the hearty oats. This bread rises beautifully thanks to the active yeast, creating a light yet filling loaf. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredient Rundown

To create the perfect Classic Oatmeal Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup oatmeal – Regular oats work best for this recipe, providing texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
• 1 cup boiling water – This helps to hydrate the oats and create a soft dough.
• _ cup warm water (about 110°F) – Activates the yeast for a good rise.
• 2 _ teaspoons dry active yeast – This will help the bread rise and give it a nice airy texture.
• 2 _ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your dough, contributing to structure and softness.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Cut into about 12 pieces to enrich the bread and keep it tender.

What’s in the Gear List

Before you dive into making Classic Oatmeal Bread, gather your gear:

• Mixing bowls – A large bowl for mixing the dough and a smaller one for proofing the yeast.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to successful baking!
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing the ingredients together.
• Loaf pan – A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan will work perfectly.
• Kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises and keeps it warm.
• Oven – Preheated to ensure the perfect baking environment.

From Start to Finish: Classic Oatmeal Bread

Making Classic Oatmeal Bread is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Oats

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will soften the oats and create a creamy texture.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a separate bowl, mix the warm water (about 110°F) with 2 _ teaspoons of dry active yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial, as it indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the oats have softened and the yeast is activated, add the oat mixture to the yeast mixture. Stir in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate 2 _ cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a dough begins to form.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Kneading helps develop the gluten, resulting in a better texture for your bread.

Step 5: Add the Butter

Gently flatten the dough and scatter 2 tablespoons of butter pieces over the top. Fold the dough over the butter and knead until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.

Step 6: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with butter and place the dough inside, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is undergoing its second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, and the top is golden brown.

Step 11: Cool and Slice

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your Classic Oatmeal Bread!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Classic Oatmeal Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy it throughout the seasons:

• Spring: Toast slices and top with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful breakfast treat.
• Summer: Use it for light sandwiches filled with turkey, spinach, and avocado.
• Fall: Make a warm bread pudding with your Classic Oatmeal Bread, eggs, milk, and spices.
• Winter: Serve it alongside a hearty soup or stew to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Avoid These Mistakes

Baking bread can sometimes be tricky. To ensure your Classic Oatmeal Bread turns out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Using quick oats instead of regular oats, as they won’t provide the same texture.
• Not allowing the yeast to proof properly; always check for frothiness before mixing.
• Skipping the kneading process, which is essential for developing gluten.
• Not letting the dough rise long enough, which can lead to dense bread.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To keep your Classic Oatmeal Bread fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices directly from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Handy Q&A

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start with 1.5 cups and add more as needed to achieve the right consistency.

Is it necessary to knead the dough?

Kneading is essential to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure and texture. If you skip this step, your bread may turn out dense and heavy.

Can I add additional ingredients like nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in your favorite nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits to customize your Classic Oatmeal Bread. Just be mindful of the total volume to ensure it rises properly.

How can I tell if my bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a digital thermometer; the internal temperature should read about 190°F (88°C).

Try These Next

If you enjoyed making Classic Oatmeal Bread, you might also like:

• Whole Wheat Bread
• Focaccia Bread
• Banana Bread
• Sourdough Bread

Let’s Eat

Classic Oatmeal Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in loaf form. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or as the foundation for a hearty sandwich, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this Classic Oatmeal Bread a try. Your taste buds will thank you!