Honey Oatmeal Bread is a wholesome and hearty loaf that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the rich, nutty texture of oats. This bread is perfect for those who enjoy a slightly sweet, dense bread that’s ideal for toasting or as a base for sandwiches. The addition of oats not only provides a lovely texture and flavor but also adds a boost of fiber, making it a more nutritious option. Whether slathered with butter and jam for breakfast or used to sandwich fresh deli meats and cheeses, Honey Oatmeal Bread is sure to satisfy with its comforting taste and satisfying chew.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quick oats, plus extra for topping
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for brushing
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
Directions:
- Prepare the Oatmeal:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats and boiling water. Let sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture cools to lukewarm.
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Combine Ingredients:
- To the oatmeal mixture, add the honey, vegetable oil, and salt. Stir well. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Add Flour:
- Gradually mix in the flour, starting with 3 cups, adding more as needed to form a soft, sticky dough. The exact amount of flour will depend on humidity and the moisture content of your oatmeal.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape and Second Rise:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Sprinkle with a handful of oats. Cover and let rise again until the dough is about 1 inch above the rim of the pan, about 30-45 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Finish with Honey:
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with a little honey for a shiny, sweet crust. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Honey Oatmeal Bread is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for both bread-making enthusiasts and those new to baking. Enjoy this bread fresh from the oven for the ultimate comfort food experience, or toast it the next day for a satisfying crunch.
