Step 1: Prepare the Oats Start by soaking the rolled oats in warm water. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and 2 1/2 cups of warm water. Stir in the honey (or maple syrup) and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. The oats will soften and begin to absorb the liquid, creating a hearty base for the bread.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast While the oats are soaking, activate the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with a tablespoon of warm water (make sure it’s not too hot—around 100°F or 37°C is perfect). Let the yeast sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
Step 3: Mix the Dough Once the oats have softened, add the activated yeast mixture to the bowl with the oats. Stir in the olive oil and salt. Gradually add the flours (all-purpose and whole wheat), one cup at a time, stirring to combine. You should have a thick, slightly sticky dough.
Step 4: Knead the Dough Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. The dough will be a bit tacky, but it should start to come together into a smooth ball. If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it becomes manageable, but avoid over-flouring.
Step 5: Add the Walnuts and Sesame Seeds After the dough has been kneaded, gently fold in the chopped walnuts and sesame seeds. Knead again for a minute or so to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
Step 6: Let the Dough Rise Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. If you’re using a draft-free area, such as an oven with the light on or near a radiator, it will speed up the rising process.
Step 7: Shape the Dough Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, and shape it into a loaf. You can either shape it into a round boule or a traditional oblong loaf, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or onto a baking sheet if you prefer a rustic, free-form loaf.
Step 8: Second Rise Cover the dough with a towel and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This second rise ensures that the bread has the perfect texture.
Step 9: Preheat the Oven While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake your bread and create that golden, crusty exterior.
Step 10: Egg Wash and Sesame Seed Topping Once the dough has risen, brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg wash. This will give the bread a beautiful, shiny finish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining sesame seeds for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
Step 11: Bake the Bread Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the bread has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can leave the bread in for a few extra minutes.
Step 12: Cool and Serve Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice once cooled and enjoy the incredible aroma and texture of your homemade oatmeal bread with walnuts and sesame.
Serving Suggestions:
- For Breakfast: Spread a little butter or your favorite fruit jam on a warm slice. Add a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect start to your day.
- As a Snack: Pair it with cheese and fruit for a delicious mid-day snack or a light lunch.
- As an Accompaniment: This bread is excellent when served alongside soups, stews, or salads. The hearty texture and nutty flavor pair well with a variety of dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Bread:
- Hearty and Nutritious: The combination of oats, walnuts, and sesame seeds makes this bread filling and packed with nutrients like fiber, healthy fats, and protein.
- Perfect for Every Meal: Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to soup, this bread is incredibly versatile.
- Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the satisfaction of making your own bread from scratch. The smell of fresh-baked bread will fill your home with warmth and comfort.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with other additions, such as dried fruits, seeds, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
This Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame is a bread that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Its warm, nutty, and hearty flavor makes it a true crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to any table. Happy baking!