Oatmeal Bread

This Oatmeal Bread is everything I want in a homemade loaf — soft, hearty, and slightly sweet with a warm, nutty flavor from the oats. It’s the kind of bread that fills my kitchen with the smell of comfort and makes even a simple sandwich or slice of toast feel special. Whether I eat it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter the next day, it never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and soft. The oats give the bread a rustic texture, while the honey and butter keep it tender and flavorful. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and freezes beautifully. I like it for breakfast, sandwiches, or just snacking with jam or peanut butter.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Old-fashioned rolled oats

• Boiling water

• Active dry yeast

• Warm water (not boiling)

• Honey or brown sugar

• Unsalted butter (softened or melted)

• All-purpose flour

• Whole wheat flour (optional for a heartier loaf)

• Salt

• Optional: extra oats for topping

Directions

1. I start by pouring boiling water over the oats in a large bowl and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to soften.

2. While the oats are cooling, I dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of honey and let it sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.

3. I stir the yeast mixture, honey, softened butter, and salt into the oat mixture. Then I gradually add the flours until a soft dough forms.

4. I knead the dough for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface (or in a stand mixer with a dough hook) until it’s smooth and elastic.

5. I place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size — about 1 to 1½ hours.

6. I punch the dough down, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. I let it rise again for about 30–45 minutes until puffy.

7. I optionally brush the top with a little melted butter and sprinkle with oats, then bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

8. I cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 standard loaf (about 12 slices).
Prep time: 25 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Bake time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

When I want extra texture, I add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds to the dough. For a sweeter twist, I’ve mixed in raisins or dried cranberries. I sometimes use all whole wheat flour for a denser, more rustic loaf, or replace the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.

storage/reheating

I store this bread wrapped in plastic or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I slice it and freeze the pieces in a zip-top bag. I reheat slices in the toaster or microwave — it tastes just like fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, I can — they soften a little faster and give a slightly smoother texture, but they still work well in the bread.

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely. I often knead by hand, and it just takes a bit more time and elbow grease. It’s actually relaxing once I get into it.

Is it okay to use only all-purpose flour?

Yes, I’ve made it with just all-purpose flour and it turns out soft and delicious. The whole wheat just adds a bit more texture and depth.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

I look for a golden-brown crust and give the bottom of the loaf a tap — it should sound hollow. A thermometer inserted should read around 190–200°F.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. I just make sure to divide the dough evenly into two pans and give it a little more room and rise time if needed.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Bread is the kind of recipe I come back to again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and always makes my kitchen feel a little cozier. Whether I’m enjoying it with breakfast, packing it into lunches, or toasting it up with butter and jam, this homemade loaf adds warmth and comfort to every bite.