Fruited Oatmeal Bread
A hearty, sweet oatmeal bread packed with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for breakfast or teatime, offering wholesome flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray an 8 x 4 x 3-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine egg, buttermilk, and brown sugar.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring to blend.
- Add oats, chopped dates or raisins, and nuts.
- Stir well, then turn the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the bread is brown and firm to touch.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor, making it reminiscent of the cozy notes found in American recipes like Jean Worley'S Corn Bread.
Serving Suggestions
This Fruited Oatmeal Bread is delicious on its own or served with a smear of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of warm soup or as part of a brunch spread with dishes like Raisin Bran Coffee Cake Square.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Oatmeal Bread contains roughly 3155 calories, with 37g protein, 573g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), potassium (73% of the Daily Value), and calcium (70% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruits like dates or raisins?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruit for dried ones, but keep in mind that fresh fruit has a higher moisture content. You may need to reduce the amount of buttermilk slightly to maintain the right consistency in the batter.
What can I do if my bread is too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you measure your flour accurately and mix just until combined. Adding a teaspoon of baking powder can also help lighten the bread for a better rise.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Fruited Oatmeal Bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats as well. You may also want to add a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with the texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).