Oatmeal-Molasses Ranch Bread
A hearty, flavorful bread featuring the sweetness of molasses and the wholesome texture of oatmeal, perfect for breakfast or as a side for hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 2 cups of boiling water, 1 cup of oatmeal, 1/2 cup of molasses, 1 tablespoon of butter, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt in a large bowl.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding the dissolved yeast.
- Gradually add 4 1/2 cups of flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a clean surface until smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest and rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead again briefly.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape into loaves.
- Place the loaves into greased bread pans, cover, and let rise until nearly doubled.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier texture, consider using steel-cut oats instead of regular or quick oatmeal. You can substitute honey or agave syrup for molasses if desired, but the flavor will vary slightly. If you prefer a sweeter bread, add a bit more molasses. Ensure your water isn't too hot when adding the yeast, as it can kill the yeast and prevent rising.
Serving Suggestions
Oatmeal-Molasses Ranch Bread is delicious served warm, slathered with butter or homemade jam. It pairs beautifully with Mammy'S Creamed Chicken On Rice for a comforting meal. You can also enjoy it alongside soups or salads, making it a versatile addition to your dining table. Consider slicing it for sandwiches or toasting for breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in a toaster or oven until heated through, preserving its fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal-Molasses Ranch Bread contains roughly 2439 calories, with 8g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 210g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (218% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the bread may turn out denser. A good approach is to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain lightness while adding some nutritional benefits.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F (88°C) for perfectly baked bread.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegan by replacing the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil. Also, double-check that your molasses is vegan-friendly, as some brands may include non-vegan 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).