Grandmother'S Oatmeal Bread
Grandmother's Oatmeal Bread is a hearty, flavorful loaf with the wholesome taste of oatmeal and the rich sweetness of molasses. Its soft crumb and classic aroma make it perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a comforting snack, appealing to bakers of all skill levels seeking a traditional homemade bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the yeast in warm water.
- Combine yeast with boiling water, oatmeal, beaten eggs, molasses, shortening, and salt. Let cool.
- Stir in 2 cups of flour and beat well.
- Add remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, then knead.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in bulk.
- Divide the dough in half or shape into rolls.
- Let the shaped dough rise twice, kneading again after the first rise.
- Bake at 370°F (188°C) for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure your yeast is fresh and active, and watch the water temperature carefully when combining. If you don't have molasses, honey or brown sugar can be excellent substitutes. For a nuttier flavor, consider adding a handful of seeds or nuts into the dough. This oatmeal bread pairs wonderfully with soups or stews, making it a versatile option in your meal rotation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this oatmeal bread warm with butter or jam for breakfast, or use it for sandwiches at lunch. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to soups like the Cream Cheese Coconut Cake. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or a hearty stew for a complete meal. This bread's texture and flavor also complement cheeses beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Oatmeal Bread contains roughly 341 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1013mg per serving (44% 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
Why is my oatmeal bread not rising properly?
If your bread isn't rising, check the yeast's freshness and ensure the warm water isn't too hot, as that can kill the yeast. Also, make sure your dough is in a warm, draft-free area during the rising process. If it's too cold, the yeast won't activate effectively.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this oatmeal bread vegan by replacing the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer. Substitute the shortening with a plant-based oil or vegan butter. Using agave syrup or maple syrup instead of molasses will also keep it plant-based.
How can I enhance the flavor of the bread?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You could also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and taste. Experimenting with herbs can yield delicious variations too.
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).