Oat Bread Recipe
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.
Oat Bread
Ingredients
- 2 packages active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 2 1/4 cups milk, scalded
- 1/4 cup shortening, softened
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 6 to 6 1/2 cups sifted flour
- 2 cups quick or old-fashioned oats, uncooked
- Melted shortening (for brushing)
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water.
- Pour scalded milk over shortening and honey; stir to blend. Let cool until warm (not hot).
- Add salt, yeast mixture, and oats. Add flour gradually—enough to make a soft dough.
- Turn onto a lightly floured board and knead until smooth and satiny, about 10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl; brush lightly with shortening. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Punch down; cover and let rest 10 minutes. Shape into 2 loaves.
- Place in two greased 9×5×3-inch loaf pans. Brush tops lightly with melted shortening. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled.
- Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes. Cool before slicing.
- Optional faster rise: Put loaves in a cold oven with a pan of hot water on the rack below.
Total Bake Time: about 45 minutes
Equipment: 2 greased 9×5×3-inch loaf pans
Yield: 2 loaves
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—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.