Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma and create a bread so delicious it'll make your family beg for more? This Whole Wheat Oatmeal Bread is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines the hearty goodness of whole grains with the subtle sweetness of honey, promising a loaf that's both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this foolproof recipe will have you producing bakery-quality bread right in your own home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water (around 110°F) with the active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.
- Add honey to the yeast mixture and stir until well combined. The honey will help feed the yeast and provide sweetness to the bread.
- In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the well of dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, with a slight tackiness.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) about 15 minutes before baking.
- Optional: Brush the top of the loaf with water or an egg wash for a glossy finish. Sprinkle additional rolled oats on top for decoration.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your water is precisely warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead with Patience: Take the full 8-10 minutes to knead, which develops gluten and ensures a perfect texture.
- Rising Environment Matters: Choose a warm, draft-free spot like near a preheating oven for optimal dough rising.
- Don't Rush the Cool Down: Always let the bread cool completely to allow the interior to set and prevent gumminess.
- Storage Tip: Wrap the cooled bread in a clean kitchen towel or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding seeds like sunflower or flax for extra nutrition and crunch.
- Precision is Crucial: Use exact measurements for consistent results every time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
