Oat bread is a delightful and nutritious option for those looking for a healthier bread alternative. This recipe combines the goodness of oats, mixed nuts, and seeds, making it not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side for your favorite meals, this oat bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 90g oat flakes (use gluten-free oats if needed)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 cups mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 200ml yogurt or kefir
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Seeds for decoration (e.g., sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the oat flakes, salt, and baking soda. Mix well to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or kefir), egg, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Add the Nuts:
- Fold in the mixed nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Prepare and Bake
- Transfer to Loaf Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Decorate with Seeds:
- Sprinkle the top of the batter with your choice of seeds for decoration.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve your delicious and healthy oat bread with your favorite spreads or as a side for your meals.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Nuts and Seeds: Feel free to use any combination of nuts and seeds you like. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your oat flakes are certified gluten-free if you need a gluten-free bread.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Variations
Add Sweetness
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients for a slightly sweet version of this bread.
Make it Vegan
- Egg Substitute: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to make the bread vegan.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt: Use a dairy-free yogurt or kefir to keep the recipe vegan.
Add Spices
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced oat bread.
Serving Suggestions
For Breakfast
- With Spread:
- Enjoy a slice of oat bread with butter, jam, or nut butter for a nutritious breakfast.
As a Snack
- With Fruit:
- Pair a slice with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced snack.
With Meals
- As a Side:
- Serve the oat bread alongside soups, salads, or main dishes for a wholesome addition to your meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of oat flakes? A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the bread may be slightly different.
Q: Can I make this bread without nuts? A: Yes, you can omit the nuts or replace them with dried fruits or seeds if you prefer.
Q: How do I know when the bread is done baking? A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Q: Can I freeze this bread? A: Yes, you can freeze the bread. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
This Delicious and Healthy Oat Bread is a versatile and nutritious option that’s perfect for any time of day. With its combination of oats, nuts, and seeds, it’s packed with fiber and protein, making it a satisfying choice for breakfast, snacks, or as a side for your meals. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions to make this recipe your own!