Oat Bread Recipe (Yeast-Raised, Makes Two Loaves)

Homemade Oat Bread Loaves

This oat bread is a classic yeast-raised loaf made with milk, honey, and oats for a mild, hearty flavor. It’s kneaded and risen like traditional homemade bread, then baked into two loaves.

Great for toast, sandwiches, or snacking—especially warm with butter.

🍞 Homemade Oat Bread

A hearty, honey-sweetened oat bread. This recipe makes two golden loaves, perfect for sandwiches or toast.

⏱️ Bake Time: ~45 Mins 🍞 Yield: 2 Loaves 🔥 Oven: 350°F

Ingredients

  • 2 pkgs active dry yeast
  • ½ cup lukewarm water
  • 2 ¼ cups milk, scalded
  • ¼ cup shortening, softened
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 2 ½ tsp salt
  • 2 cups oats (quick or old-fashioned)
  • 6 to 6 ½ cups sifted flour
  • Melted shortening (for brushing)

Preparation Instructions

  1. Prep: Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water. Pour scalded milk over shortening and honey; stir, then cool until just warm.
  2. Dough: Mix in salt, yeast, and oats. Gradually add flour to form a soft dough. Knead on a floured surface until smooth (10 mins).
  3. Rise: Place in a greased bowl, brush with shortening, cover, and rise until doubled (~1 hr).
  4. Shape: Punch down, rest 10 mins, then shape into 2 loaves. Place in 9×5×3-inch pans; brush tops with shortening. Cover and rise until nearly doubled.
  5. Bake: Bake at 350°F for ~45 mins. Cool completely before slicing.

💡 Tip: For a faster rise, place pans in a cold oven with a pan of hot water on the rack below.

Oat Bread FAQ

Why should the milk mixture cool before adding yeast?

If the milk is too hot it can kill the yeast. Let it cool until warm to the touch before mixing in the yeast.

Can I use quick oats or old-fashioned oats?

Yes. Either works in this recipe—quick oats blend in more, while old-fashioned oats give a slightly heartier texture.

How do I know the bread is done baking?

The loaves are done when they’re well browned and sound hollow when tapped. You can also test with a thermometer (around 190–200°F in the center).

Can I freeze one loaf?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

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