Name: Oatmeal and Chia Bread: A Nutritious and Delicious Homemade Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute up to 1/2 with whole wheat flour); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based); 1/2 cup water; 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

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Oatmeal and Chia Bread is a hearty and nutritious loaf packed with texture and flavor. The combination of rolled oats, chia seeds, and a touch of butter or olive oil creates a soft, airy bread with a slight nutty undertone. This bread not only offers a unique twist on traditional bread recipes but also brings a wealth of health benefits thanks to the addition of chia seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy it for breakfast, toast it for lunch, or serve it as a side with dinner, Oatmeal and Chia Bread is a versatile option for any occasion. The bread is easy to make, requiring basic ingredients and a bit of patience as the dough rises. Perfect for those who want a healthier, more filling alternative to standard bread, this loaf is sure to satisfy and nourish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with chia seeds and rolled oats, this bread offers a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to incorporate more whole grains and superfoods into their diet.

2. Simple Ingredients

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this bread. The recipe uses everyday pantry staples, and you can easily adjust it to your taste or dietary preferences.

3. Great Texture

The rolled oats provide a chewy, hearty texture while the chia seeds give a pleasant crunch. The combination results in a loaf that’s soft on the inside but with a satisfying bite.

4. Customizable

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or adding your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

5. Versatile and Delicious

This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasting with a bit of butter, or enjoying with a drizzle of honey or jam. It works well for both savory and sweet toppings, making it an all-around delicious choice.

Ingredients

Rolled oats
Chia seeds
All-purpose flour (or a mixture of whole wheat and all-purpose flour)
Baking powder
Salt
Sugar
Milk (dairy or plant-based)
Water
Butter or olive oil
Active dry yeast

Variations

Whole Wheat Version: For a heartier, more fiber-rich loaf, substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Add-ins: Include nuts like walnuts or almonds, or dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for added flavor.
Sweet Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness. You can also increase the sugar to give the bread a slight sweetness that pairs well with butter.
Herb Infused: For a savory twist, try adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a separate bowl, combine warm water and milk. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the liquid mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the activated yeast mixture and the butter or olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too dry, add a little more water or milk.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, dust it lightly with flour.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape and Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Keep the dough warm: Yeast rises best in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a warm stove.
Don’t overwork the dough: While kneading, be gentle and don’t overwork the dough. Overworking can result in dense bread.
Check the bread early: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your bread after 25 minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
Moisture: Ensure the milk and water are warm, but not too hot, as very hot liquids can kill the yeast.
Enhance flavor: Experiment with additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to make the bread even more aromatic.

How to Serve

Enjoy Oatmeal and Chia Bread in many ways! It’s perfect for:

Sandwiches: Use it as the base for your favorite sandwich, from classic turkey and cheese to veggie wraps.
Toast: Slice and toast the bread, then spread butter, jam, or peanut butter for a satisfying snack or breakfast.
Side Dish: Serve it alongside soups, salads, or your favorite dips. Its hearty texture complements many dishes.
As a snack: Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a mid-day treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the bread has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days.

Freezing

To freeze Oatmeal and Chia Bread, slice it first and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped slices in a zip-top freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply toast it or let it thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices of bread by placing them in a toaster or on a warm skillet. For larger portions, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats are preferred for texture, you can use quick oats if that’s all you have on hand. The bread may have a softer texture, but it will still work.

2. Can I make this bread without yeast?

If you don’t have yeast, you can substitute it with baking soda or baking powder, but the texture and rise will be different. You’ll also need to adjust the leavening agents in the recipe.

3. Can I add raisins or other dried fruits to this bread?

Yes! Adding dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots is a great idea. Just be sure to fold them in gently before baking.

4. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make this bread gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. You may need to experiment with additional ingredients such as xanthan gum to help with texture.

5. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.

6. Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Yes, olive oil works well as a substitute for butter and will add a slightly different but delicious flavor to the bread.

7. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, almond milk works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use other plant-based milks like oat milk or soy milk.

8. How do I store leftover bread?

Wrap the leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

9. Can I add nuts to the bread?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans would be a great addition to the dough. They’ll add a nice crunch and flavor.

10. Is this bread good for meal prep?

Yes, this bread stores well and can be made ahead of time. It’s great for meal prep as it stays fresh for several days or can be frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion

Oatmeal and Chia Bread is a wholesome, hearty loaf that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With its nutty texture from the oats and satisfying crunch from the chia seeds, this bread is perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re toasting it, making sandwiches, or enjoying it as a snack, this bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a healthier take on homemade bread!