Oatmeal Bread(Makes 4 Medium Loaves)
Hearty oatmeal bread with sweet molasses and a subtle salt kick—perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, offering wholesome comfort suited for families and brunch crowds.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak 2 cups oatmeal for 1 hour in 4 cups boiling water.
- Add 1 cup molasses, 2 envelopes yeast dissolved in 1 cup very warm water, and 3 Tbsp salt to the oatmeal mixture; gradually incorporate 9 to 10 cups flour.
- Knead the dough slightly.
- Let it rise covered until doubled in bulk.
- Knead thoroughly on a floured surface and place the dough in buttered and floured bread pans.
- Allow the dough to rise again until doubled.
- Bake at 375°F (preheated) for about 40 minutes.
- Check that the bread feels solid when it is done; serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add 1/4 cup of honey along with the molasses. Make sure the water is not too hot when activating the yeast, as it can kill the yeast. It's important to let the bread rise in a warm place for optimal results.
Serving Suggestions
This oatmeal bread pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a perfect accompaniment to dishes like Spicy Broccoli And Rice. Slice it thick for sandwiches or toast it lightly for breakfast, topped with butter or your favorite jam. It also makes a delightful base for avocado toast or a hearty sandwich.
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 in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, placing them in the freezer. To reheat, unwrap and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave slices for 15-20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Bread(Makes 4 Medium Loaves) contains roughly 242 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2780mg per serving (121% 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 rolled oats?
While rolled oats are recommended for the best texture, you can use quick oats in a pinch. They will absorb moisture differently and may result in a softer bread, but the flavor will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still yield a sweet and tasty bread.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and feels solid. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; it should register around 190°F to 200°F in the center for fully baked loaves.
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).