Molasses Oatmeal Bread
Molasses Oatmeal Bread offers a hearty, slightly sweet flavor with the wholesome goodness of oats and raisins. Its rich molasses undertones make it perfect for breakfast or snack time, catering to those who enjoy rustic, homemade bread with a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine dry oatmeal and boiling water; let stand for 1 hour until cooled.
- Add molasses, soft shortening, brown sugar, raisins, salt, and dry yeast dissolved in warm water.
- Mix well and let the mixture rise until doubled in size.
- Add the rest of the flour and knead well.
- Let the dough rise again until light.
- Form the dough into loaves and place in greased pans.
- Let the loaves rise until light.
- Bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. You can substitute half of the raisins with chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture. If you're out of soft shortening, use equal parts of unsalted butter or coconut oil. For a quicker rise, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. Ensure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to activate it properly.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Molasses Oatmeal Bread and serve it warm with butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with a bowl of oatmeal or a warm cup of tea. For a heartier meal, enjoy it alongside soups or stews. This bread also makes excellent sandwiches, especially with savory fillings like turkey or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Oatmeal Bread contains roughly 800 calories, with 5g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), potassium (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 975mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant oatmeal instead of dry oatmeal?
Yes, you can use instant oatmeal, but it may change the texture slightly. Instant oatmeal absorbs water quickly, so you might want to reduce the boiling water by a quarter cup and adjust the resting time accordingly.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check that your yeast is fresh and the water used to activate it was warm but not hot. Place the dough in a warmer area, such as near an oven or in a turned-off microwave with a cup of hot water to create a warm, humid environment.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Molasses Oatmeal Bread vegan, substitute the soft shortening with a plant-based butter or coconut oil and use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture to replace the yeast. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens before adding it to the wet ingredients.
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).