Oatmeal Bread
Oatmeal bread is a hearty and wholesome loaf that combines the nutty flavor of oats with the sweetness of brown sugar. The addition of nut meats provides a delightful crunch, making it perfect for breakfast or as a side to soups and salads. Ideal for those seeking a nutritious option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water.
- Pour boiling water over oatmeal, shortening, sugar, and salt.
- Mix well.
- Let cool until lukewarm. Stir in dissolved yeast.
- Add nut meats and 3 1/4 cups of flour.
- Cover and set in a warm place to allow it to double in size.
- Place remaining flour on board and knead until it is all worked in.
- Set in a warm place until more than double in bulk.
- Divide into loaves.
- Let raise.
- Bake at 350° for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider using whole grain oats instead of regular oatmeal. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. To ensure your bread rises well, make sure the water is lukewarm, not hot, before adding the yeast. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Oatmeal bread is delightful when served warm with butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad, such as a Sunshine Salad. You can also toast slices for a crunchy breakfast option topped with jam or honey. For a hearty sandwich, layer it with turkey, cheese, and greens.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the oatmeal bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm the whole loaf in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Bread contains roughly 1358 calories, with 22g protein, 236g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (103% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2297mg per serving (100% 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 quick oats instead of uncooked oatmeal?
Yes, you can use quick oats in this recipe; however, the texture will be slightly different. Quick oats absorb liquid more readily, so you may want to adjust the water slightly to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make vegan oatmeal bread, substitute the shortening with a plant-based butter or oil, and ensure that the yeast is active and fresh. You can also replace the brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Why is my oatmeal bread not rising?
If your oatmeal bread isn't rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure the water temperature is lukewarm, as too hot or too cold water can kill the yeast. Additionally, make sure the dough is in a warm environment to encourage rising.
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).