Oat Molasses Bread Recipe Maine
This OatMolasses Bread Recipe Maine combines hearty oats with the rich flavor ofmolasses, creating a soft, flavorful loaf perfect for any meal. With simpleingredients and easy steps, it's a must-try for those craving a wholesome,comforting bread.
Equipment
- MixingBowl A large bowl for combining ingredients and allowing the dough to rise.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons For accurate measurements of dry and liquid ingredients.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer To mix and knead dough effortlessly.
- Loaf Pan: A 9x5-inch pan for shaping and baking your bread.
- Dough Scraper For handling and transferring dough easily.
- Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap To cover the dough during rising.
- Oven Thermometer Ensures precise baking temperature at 350°F (175°C).
Ingredients
- 2 cups Rolled oats Use certified gluten-free oats if needed. Instant oats won’t provide the same texture.
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed; texture may vary slightly.
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder Helps the bread rise for a light, airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of molasses.
- 1/2 cup Molasses Provides rich, slightly sweet flavor and dark color; packed with nutrients like iron.
- 1 cup Warm water Use water between 100°F to 110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil Adds moisture for a soft and tender texture.
- 1 tablespoon Honey or maple syrup Optional; enhances sweetness, though molasses already provides plenty.
- 1/4 cup Rolled oats for topping, Optional; sprinkle on top for texture before baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Optional; adds a warm, spicy kick to the bread.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan (preferably 9x5 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This ensures the bread won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients listed below:Rolled oats All-purpose flour Baking powder SaltWhisk themtogether until they are well combined. The oats will provide that hearty, chewytexture, while the baking powder helps the bread rise evenly.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients:MolassesWarm waterVegetable oilHoney or maple syrup (Optional) for addedsweetnessStir these ingredients until fully blended. You’ll notice the molassesadds a rich, deep color and flavor to the liquid mix, which will make yourbread perfectly moist.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to denser bread. The dough should be thick but slightly sticky just enough to hold its shape.
Step 5: Transfer the Dough to the Pan
- Spoon the dough into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If you like, you can top the dough with some extra rolled oats for added texture on top. This is completely optional, but it adds a lovely rustic touch to the bread’s appearance.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The top should turn golden brown, and the bread should feel firm when touched.
Step 7: Cool the Bread
- Once baked, take the bread out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Next, transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing. Allowing it to cool properly ensures it holds its shape and makes slicing easier.
