Seeded Oat Bread Recipe

“`html

If you’ve been on the lookout for a wholesome, hearty loaf that not only tastes amazing but also feels like a warm hug straight from the oven, you’re going to adore this Seeded Oat Bread Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of oats and mixed seeds that come together to create a moist, flavorful bread perfect for everything from your morning toast to an elegant sandwich. The wholesome grains and seeds add wonderful texture, nutrition, and a nutty depth that turns everyday bread into something truly special. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Seeded Oat Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays an essential role. From the creamy oats that add softness and moisture to the crunchy seeds that bring a delightful texture and rich flavor, each element contributes to the perfect loaf.

• 2 cups rolled oats: These soften during soaking to give the bread a tender crumb and hearty oat flavor.
• 2 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C): The warm water helps soften oats and activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons): This is the magic that makes your bread rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the earthiness of oats and seeds.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil): Keeps the bread moist and tender with a subtle richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour): Gives structure and that lovely hearty body, with optional all-purpose for a lighter texture.
• 1 cup mixed seeds (sunflower, sesame, pumpkin, flax): Creates a crunchy, tasty crust and adds nutritional benefits.
• 1 cup oat flour (optional): Intensifies the oat flavor for oat lovers.
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds (optional): Boosts fiber and omega-3 content while blending in subtly.

How to Make Seeded Oat Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oats

Start by combining your rolled oats with warm water in a medium bowl, then let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it softens the oats, imparting a tender, moist texture to your bread, and helps integrate that lovely oat flavor throughout the loaf.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Meanwhile, mix warm water with honey or maple syrup in a small bowl, then sprinkle your yeast over the surface. Let it sit about 5 minutes until foamy—this proofing guarantees the yeast is alive and ready to give your bread that beautiful rise and airy crumb.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Now to the fun part: add your foamy yeast mixture, olive oil, salt, and flours to the soaked oats. Stir gently to combine everything into a sticky dough—don’t worry if it’s a little tacky at this stage. If it feels too wet, just sprinkle a bit more flour to get a workable consistency.

Step 4: Add the Seeds

Next, toss in your mixed seeds and ground flaxseeds, folding them evenly through the dough. These seeds not only give every bite a satisfying crunch but also boost the nutritional punch that makes this Seeded Oat Bread Recipe so special.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading step is key for developing good gluten structure, which gives your bread its chewy texture and wonderful rise.

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough into a greased bowl and cover it—this cozy environment lets the dough rise over 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size. Patience here is rewarded with a light and airy loaf!

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Punch down the risen dough gently to release air bubbles, shape it into a loaf, and pop it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step gives your bread its classic shape and helps it rise evenly during baking.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30 minutes, until it puffs up nicely. This final rise ensures a tender crumb with a lovely oven spring when baked.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust turns golden and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s time to enjoy something truly spectacular.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow your bread to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing too soon can cause a gummy texture, so be patient—the wait is worth it.

How to Serve Seeded Oat Bread Recipe

Garnishes

This Seeded Oat Bread Recipe shines when garnished simply. Try brushing the crust with a little melted butter or olive oil to enhance its golden shine, then sprinkle extra seeds on top before baking for that irresistible crunch and eye-catching finish.

Side Dishes

Seeded oat bread pairs beautifully with a range of sides. For breakfast, a spread of creamy avocado or nut butter highlights its nutty notes. For lunch or dinner, it’s outstanding alongside soups, hearty stews, or fresh, vibrant salads—its wholesome nature complements many flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your loaf up a notch by turning slices into open-faced sandwiches topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill, or use it as the perfect base for an elegant bruschetta. Toast it lightly for a crustier texture that holds up wonderfully under melted cheese or savory spreads. The options are endless and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Seeded Oat Bread Recipe loaf will keep fresh wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and texture without drying out.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first for convenience, then wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to thaw whenever you need a comforting homemade bite.

Reheating

To revive frozen or day-old bread, toast slices directly or warm the whole loaf wrapped loosely in foil in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This freshens the crust and brings back that just-baked deliciousness you love.

FAQs

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using all-purpose flour will give you a lighter, less dense loaf. Whole wheat adds extra fiber and a richer flavor, so feel free to choose based on your preference.

What kind of seeds work best for this Seeded Oat Bread Recipe?

Mixed seeds like sunflower, sesame, pumpkin, and flax are fantastic here. They add crunch, flavor, and nutrition. You can customize with your favorites or whatever you have on hand!

Is it necessary to soak the oats before mixing the dough?

Soaking the oats softens them to create a tender crumb and prevents a dry texture. Skipping this step might result in a rougher loaf, so I highly recommend it.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

The crust should be a lovely golden brown, and when you tap the bottom of the loaf, it should sound hollow. These signs ensure your bread is baked through and ready to enjoy.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

This recipe relies on gluten for structure, so to make it gluten-free you’d need to replace the wheat flours with gluten-free blends and possibly add binding agents like xanthan gum. It would require some experimentation for the perfect loaf.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Seeded Oat Bread Recipe enough. It’s genuinely one of those breads that feels homemade and nourishing, with a flavor and texture that impresses every time. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or simply treating yourself, this bread brings warmth and wholesome goodness to your table. Grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and enjoy the rewarding process of making something truly delicious.

“`

Print