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4. Add the Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts to the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the loaf.
5. First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for creating a fluffy, airy loaf.
6. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then, shape it into a loaf by folding the dough and rolling it into a loaf shape that fits your loaf pan.
7. Second Rise
Place the dough into a greased loaf pan and cover it with a towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes until it puffs up and fills the pan.
8. Top with Sesame Seeds
Before baking, sprinkle the top of the loaf with 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds. These add a nice crunch and a touch of extra flavor to the bread.
9. Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool and Enjoy
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Bread
- For a softer loaf: If you prefer a softer, fluffier loaf, you can add a bit more water to the dough. Just be careful not to make it too sticky.
- Add other nuts or seeds: Feel free to customize this bread with other nuts like almonds or pecans, or add chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrition.
- Make it sweeter: If you prefer a slightly sweeter bread, you can increase the honey or maple syrup to 2 tablespoons.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just slice it first for easy access.
Why This Oatmeal Bread is Good for You
This bread is a powerhouse of nutrients:
- Oats: Packed with soluble fiber, oats help lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support digestive health.
- Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are known for their heart-healthy benefits and are a great source of protein and fiber.
- Sesame Seeds: High in calcium, iron, and magnesium, sesame seeds add a nutritional boost to the bread, as well as a crunchy texture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Unlike refined flour, whole wheat flour retains the bran and germ, making it higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Final Thoughts
This Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame is not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients that make it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a nutritious and satisfying bread. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish for dinner, this hearty loaf will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome flavors, and perfect for those who want a healthier alternative to traditional bread.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the comforting taste of homemade oatmeal bread with a crunchy twist!
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