Molasses Oat Bread
Warm, hearty molasses oat bread with rich flavors and chewy oats, perfect for wholesome sandwiches or enjoyed with butter, ideal for bakers seeking comforting homemade bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 2 cups of flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
- Stir well to blend.
- Add molasses and margarine.
- Add hot tap water.
- Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Add 1 more cup of flour.
- Beat at high speed for 1 minute or until dough is thick and elastic.
- Stir in oats.
- Gradually stir in just enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Turn onto a floured board.
- Knead for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a towel.
- Let sit for 20 minutes on the board.
- Punch down the dough and divide in half.
- Shape into loaves and let rise.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 to 45 minutes.
- Dough can be refrigerated from 2 to 24 hours before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use bread flour for a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works well too. If you don't have quick cooking oats, you can use rolled oats; just pulse them in a blender to break them down slightly. Feel free to substitute honey for molasses if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Make sure your water is hot but not boiling to activate the yeast effectively.
Serving Suggestions
Molasses Oat Bread is perfect for breakfast with butter or jam, or as a hearty sandwich base. It pairs beautifully with Pork Country Ribs Sauce for a satisfying meal. For a complete experience, serve it alongside a fresh salad or warm soup. Toasting slices can enhance its flavor, making it great for open-faced sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Oat Bread contains roughly 908 calories, with 17g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (90% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. 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 make this bread vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting margarine with a plant-based butter and using a plant-based milk instead of water if desired. Just ensure your yeast is vegan-friendly.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, check the temperature of your water; it should be around 110°F to activate the yeast. If the yeast is old or expired, it may not work as effectively. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer area to encourage rising.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it has a golden brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach about 190°F for perfectly baked bread.
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).