Molasses oat bread is a comforting classic that combines rich, deep flavors with hearty oats for a wholesome loaf. This bread has roots in traditional baking where molasses was a common sweetener, adding a unique touch of sweetness and moisture. It’s perfect for breakfast toast or a satisfying sandwich base.
We love how the oats give this bread a chewy texture while the molasses adds a subtle caramel note that makes every bite special. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To bake our Molasses Oat Bread successfully, we gather a blend of dry, wet, and topping ingredients that work in harmony to create a flavorful and moist loaf. Each plays a crucial role in achieving the bread’s signature texture and taste.
Dry Ingredients
The base of our bread combines wholesome oats and flours with leavening agents and spices that bring out the deep flavors of molasses.
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats (plus ½ cup for topping)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Old-fashioned oats | 1 ½ cups + ½ cup | ½ cup reserved for topping |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted |
| Whole wheat flour | 1 cup | Adds hearty texture |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | Enhances maltiness |
| Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons | Balances sweetness |
| Active dry yeast | 1 tablespoon | Activates dough rise |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 ½ teaspoons | Optional spice |
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients harmonize to bind the dough and infuse it with that unmistakable molasses richness and moisture.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- ¼ cup molasses (preferably unsulfured for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances aroma)
| Ingredient | Amount | Temperature/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Warm water | 1 cup | 110°F to 115°F |
| Molasses | ¼ cup | Unsulfured |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted and cooled |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon (optional) | Adds subtle aroma |
Topping Ingredients (if any)
To add a rustic, chewy finish and celebrate the oats’ texture, we sprinkle additional oats directly on top before baking.
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 tablespoon honey or melted butter (for brushing, optional but recommended for a beautiful golden crust)
Using this topping not only contributes to visual appeal but also enhances the chewy texture and toasted oat aroma we love in our Molasses Oat Bread.
Equipment Needed
To bake our Molasses Oat Bread successfully, having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth process and perfect results. Here is the essential gear we’ll use throughout:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls, one large for dry ingredients and one medium for wet ingredients, to keep mixing organized and efficient.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are critical for baking consistency, so use standard measuring cups for flour and oats and spoons for yeast and spices.
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon: A whisk helps break up clumps in dry ingredients; the sturdy wooden spoon is great for combining the sticky molasses mixture with the oats.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (Optional): While not mandatory, using a stand mixer speeds up kneading and develops the bread’s texture evenly.
- Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal for shaping our bread and giving it that classic rustic look.
- Kitchen Scale (Optional but Recommended): For ultimate baking precision, weighing ingredients can improve consistency.
- Clean Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap: To cover the dough during rising and prevent drying.
- Pastry Brush: To apply melted butter or honey on the crust for added flavor and shine.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the bread to cool evenly, preventing sogginess by letting air circulate underneath.
- Oven Thermometer (Optional): To ensure our oven hits the perfect baking temperature for the best crust and crumb.
| Equipment | Purpose | Optional? |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing ingredients | No |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate measurement | No |
| Whisk | Mixing dry ingredients | No |
| Wooden Spoon | Combining wet and dry ingredients | No |
| Stand Mixer with Dough Hook | Kneading dough efficiently | Yes |
| Loaf Pan (9×5 inches) | Shaping and baking the bread | No |
| Kitchen Scale | Precise ingredient weight measurements | Yes |
| Kitchen Towel/Plastic Wrap | Covering dough during rise | No |
| Pastry Brush | Brushing topping before baking | No |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling bread evenly | No |
| Oven Thermometer | Verifying oven temperature | Yes |
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy our Molasses Oat Bread fresh with minimal effort, we can prepare the dough or the entire loaf ahead of time. Following these steps ensures maximum flavor development and convenient baking.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
- Mix and Knead the Dough
Combine all ingredients following the recipe until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours at room temperature.
3. Refrigerate the Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This slow fermentation enhances the bread’s depth of flavor.
4. Shape and Second Rise
When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge. Let it rest for 30 minutes to warm up slightly. Shape it into a loaf and place it in the greased pan. Cover and allow the dough to rise again until it nearly doubles, about 45 minutes.
Baking from Refrigerated Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough completes its second rise.
- Brush the loaf with honey or melted butter and sprinkle with oats if desired, as outlined in the topping instructions.
- Bake until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean (40-45 minutes).
Freezing for Longer Storage
We can freeze the Molasses Oat Bread Dough or the fully baked loaf to make this recipe even more flexible.
| Stage | Freezing Instructions | Thawing Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Dough | Shape the dough, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Let rise and bake as usual. |
| Baked loaf | Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil | Thaw at room temperature. Refresh in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. |
Tips for Perfect Make-Ahead Bread
- Use active dry yeast as specified to ensure proper rise even after refrigeration.
- Keep dough airtight to prevent drying out or absorbing odors.
- Allow dough to come to room temperature before baking to activate yeast fully.
- Brushing with honey before baking adds a shiny crust and subtle sweetness that complements the molasses flavor perfectly.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we can easily have our Molasses Oat Bread ready to bake when needed, providing a warm, wholesome loaf with minimal preparation.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Molasses Oat Bread with perfect texture and flavor.
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups warm water (110°F) with 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast. Whisk gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses, 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1 large room temperature egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional). Stir until fully blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or stand mixer on low to combine.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface or with a dough hook until smooth and slightly tacky.
First Rise
- Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Turn to coat all sides with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm draft-free area for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping the Loaf
- Gently deflate the risen dough on a floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a tight rectangle or oval that fits your loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches).
- Place the shaped dough inside the greased loaf pan.
Second Rise
- Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise again for 45 to 60 minutes until it rises just above the pan’s rim.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F during the last 15 minutes of this rise.
Baking the Bread
- Before baking, brush the top of the dough with melted butter or honey to promote a golden crust.
- Sprinkle additional oats evenly on top for rustic texture and visual appeal.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
- The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped and the internal temperature reaches 190°F as checked by an oven thermometer.
| Baking Details | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 375°F | |
| Baking Duration | 35 to 40 mins | |
| Internal Bread Temperature | 190°F |
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately take it out of the pan.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the perfect Molasses Oat Bread every time, here are our key tips and techniques to guide you through the process:
Use Fresh, Active Dry Yeast
The quality of your yeast directly impacts the bread’s rise and texture.
- Always check the expiration date.
- Proof the yeast in warm water (105°F to 115°F) with a pinch of sugar to ensure it’s active before mixing.
Measure Ingredients Precisely
Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results.
- Use a kitchen scale for flour and oats when possible.
- When measuring flour by cup, spoon it lightly into the cup and level it off. Avoid packing.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tip |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Weigh 120 grams per cup |
| Whole wheat flour | Weigh 120 grams per cup |
| Old-fashioned oats | Measure by volume, gently packed |
| Molasses | Use liquid measuring cup |
Maintain Proper Dough Temperature
The dough should be slightly warm but not hot.
- Ideal dough temperature after mixing is 75°F to 78°F.
- Warmer dough speeds yeast activity; cooler dough slows it down.
Knead Thoroughly but Don’t Overdo It
- Knead for 8 to 10 minutes by hand or 6 to 7 minutes with a stand mixer.
- Dough should feel smooth and elastic but not sticky.
“Well-kneaded dough develops gluten which gives the bread its chewy structure and rustic crumb.”
Allow Adequate Rise Time
- First rise: Let the dough double in size in a warm draft-free area, about 1 to 1½ hours.
- Second rise: After shaping, let rise again until nearly doubled (30 to 45 minutes).
Brush With Honey or Melted Butter Before Baking
Brushing the loaf before baking improves crust color and adds a subtle shine and flavor.
- Use a pastry brush for even coverage.
Bake With Precision
- Preheat your oven fully to 375°F.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F to 200°F.
- Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
Cool Completely Before Slicing
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
- This prevents the bread from becoming gummy.
- Cooling helps the crumb set for a better slice.
Optional Enhancements for Flavor and Texture
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for added warmth.
- For extra chew, fold in ¼ cup of soaked raisins or chopped nuts during the last kneading.
By following these proven tips and practicing patience, our molasses oat bread will develop its signature rich flavor, moist texture, and hearty crumb.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Proper storing and thoughtful serving unlock the full potential of our molasses oat bread. Follow these detailed guidelines to maintain its freshness, flavor, and texture.
Storing Your Molasses Oat Bread
- Room Temperature Storage
Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it on the counter away from direct sunlight or heat.
This method preserves moisture and keeps the bread soft for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration
For longer storage up to one week, place the bread in an airtight bag or container in the refrigerator.
Note refrigeration may slightly dry the bread, so slice and toast to restore softness.
- Freezing
Slice the bread before freezing for convenience. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freezing preserves freshness for up to 3 months.
To thaw, leave slices at room temperature or pop them directly into the toaster.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days | Airtight wrap, away from heat and light |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Airtight container, slice before serving |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Individually wrap slices, use airtight freezer bag |
Serving Suggestions
Our molasses oat bread serves beautifully both warm and at room temperature. Here are some ideal ways to enjoy it:
- Breakfast Spread
Toast slices lightly to enhance the chewy oat texture. Spread with butter, honey, or your favorite nut butter for a hearty start.
- Savory Pairings
This bread pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses, smoked meats, and tangy mustards. Try it as a base for an open-faced sandwich with cream cheese and smoked salmon.
- Sweet Touches
Drizzle with extra molasses or spread fruit preserves to highlight the natural caramel and malt notes.
- Soup or Salad Accompaniment
Serve thick slices alongside warm soups or crisp salads for a comforting, wholesome meal.
Expert Tip:
“To bring out the molasses aroma, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes before serving.”
By following these storing and serving suggestions, we ensure our molasses oat bread delights every time with its full, rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Conclusion
Molasses oat bread brings a warm, wholesome touch to any meal with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Making it at home is straightforward, letting us enjoy fresh, comforting bread whenever we want. With a few simple ingredients and some care, this recipe fits perfectly into our baking routine.
Whether we’re serving it toasted for breakfast or alongside savory dishes, this bread offers versatility and heartiness. Keeping it fresh and storing it properly ensures every slice tastes just as delightful as the first. Let’s embrace the joy of baking this classic loaf and savor the delicious results together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is molasses oat bread?
Molasses oat bread is a flavorful, moist bread made with molasses as a natural sweetener and hearty oats for texture. It offers a subtle caramel note with a chewy crumb and is easy to make at home.
What ingredients are needed to make molasses oat bread?
Key ingredients include old-fashioned oats, all-purpose and whole wheat flours, brown sugar, salt, active dry yeast, molasses, warm water, melted butter, an egg, and optional cinnamon and vanilla extract.
What equipment do I need to bake this bread?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring utensils, a whisk, wooden spoon, loaf pan, pastry brush, kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and a cooling rack. Optional tools include a stand mixer, kitchen scale, and oven thermometer.
Can I prepare molasses oat bread dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the dough ahead, then shape and let it rise before baking. Dough and baked bread also freeze well for future use.
How do I know when molasses oat bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the top is golden, it sounds hollow when tapped, and an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) is reached.
How should I store molasses oat bread?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerate to extend freshness up to a week, or freeze slices or whole loaves for longer storage.
What are some serving suggestions for this bread?
Molasses oat bread is great toasted with butter or honey, paired with cheeses and meats, or enjoyed with sweet toppings. Warming slices enhances its molasses aroma.
Can I customize the flavor of the bread?
Yes, add-ins like ground cinnamon, soaked raisins, or chopped nuts can enhance flavor and texture according to your preference.