Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but want a healthier twist? Then look no further! This recipe for whole wheat bread with oats is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and delivers a wholesome, nutty loaf packed with fiber and flavor. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for a homemade meal any night of the week. Say goodbye to store-bought bread and hello to a delicious, healthy, and satisfying homemade alternative!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or more, as needed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ cup milk (any kind)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, leading to a beautifully risen loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in olive oil and milk.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add whole wheat flour, oats, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little sticky at this stage; that's perfectly normal.
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding more all-purpose flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be smooth and slightly elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier, more textured bread.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 7: Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 8: Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
Step 9: Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Whole Wheat Bread:
- Use fresh yeast: Old yeast may not activate properly, affecting the rise of your bread.
- Don't over-knead: Over-kneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a bread thermometer to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely develops the crumb structure and prevents a gummy texture.
Variations:
- Add seeds: Incorporate sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or flaxseeds for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use different grains: Experiment with adding other grains like rye or barley for a unique taste.
- Sweeten it up: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a slightly sweeter loaf.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary based on slice size and specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients. However, generally, you can expect this bread to be a good source of fiber and whole grains, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet.
This whole wheat bread with oats recipe provides a fantastic alternative to store-bought options. It’s a delicious and satisfying loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the wonderful results!