If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional bread, this Easy Oatmeal Bread is the answer. It’s naturally sweetened with oats, meaning no added sugar is required. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy carbs, this low-calorie bread is perfect for anyone trying to stay on track with a nutritious diet. It’s also incredibly versatile – use it for breakfast toast, sandwiches, or as a side with soups and stews. Best of all, it’s easy to make, and you can have fresh, warm bread ready in about an hour with just a few simple ingredients.
Perfect for busy mornings or meal prep, this recipe can be customized with your favorite additions like seeds, nuts, or herbs. Let’s dive into how to make this wholesome, tasty bread!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 1 loaf
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour if preferred)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional, for added richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Oats
Start by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over the rolled oats in a large mixing bowl. Stir well and let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes. This allows the oats to soften and absorb most of the water. The oats should become soft and slightly mushy.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
Once the oats have softened, sprinkle the yeast over the warm oat mixture (make sure the mixture is warm but not hot). Stir gently and allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes. You should see the yeast become frothy and activated. This is a sign that the yeast is working and will help your bread rise.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Next, add 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and the olive oil (if using) into the oat mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. You may need to use your hands to mix everything together. The dough should be somewhat sticky at this point.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable, but be careful not to add too much flour – the dough should still be a bit tacky.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Once the dough is kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Turn it once to coat it with oil, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes, uncovered, allowing it to rise slightly.
Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The top should be firm and slightly crisp.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This ensures that the bread slices properly and doesn’t become too crumbly.
Why This Recipe Works
- Oats Provide Natural Sweetness: The rolled oats soften and release their natural sugars, eliminating the need for added sweeteners.
- Whole Wheat Flour Adds Nutrition: High in fiber and nutrients, whole wheat flour makes this bread filling and wholesome.
- Yeast for Fluffy Texture: The yeast ensures a light, airy crumb despite the dense ingredients like oats.
Variations to Try
- Add Seeds or Nuts: Stir in chia seeds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped walnuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Herb-Infused Loaf: Add dried rosemary or thyme for a savory twist, perfect for pairing with soups or stews.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based oil or omit the butter entirely—it’s not essential for structure.
- Spice It Up: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little ginger for a warm, flavorful twist.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to achieving a light, fluffy texture. Rushing this step can result in dense bread.
- Adjust Hydration: Depending on the type of flour used, you may need to adjust the water slightly for the right consistency. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Toast: Top a warm slice with avocado, almond butter, or a poached egg for a nourishing start to your day.
- Sandwiches: This bread is perfect for hearty sandwiches with turkey, hummus, or roasted veggies.
- Soup Companion: Serve warm slices alongside hearty soups or stews for a comforting, filling meal.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Oatmeal Bread is not only healthy and simple to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, making sandwiches, or serving it with soup, this bread is a wonderful addition to any meal. Its low-calorie, no-sugar recipe makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious bread alternative.
Have you ever baked homemade bread before or experimented with no-sugar recipes? I’d love to hear your variations or how you plan to enjoy this oatmeal bread!
