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To make **Oatmeal Bread with Apples and Cinnamon**, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **1 ½ cups rolled oats** (old-fashioned oats work best)
– **1 ½ cups warm water**
– **2 teaspoons active dry yeast**
– **1 tablespoon honey** or maple syrup
– **2 cups whole wheat flour** (you can substitute with all-purpose flour if desired)
– **1 cup all-purpose flour**
– **1 teaspoon salt**
– **1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon**
– **1 cup peeled and grated apples** (about 1-2 medium apples)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil** or vegetable oil (for moisture)
– **1 egg** (for added richness and structure)
– **Optional**: ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or raisins for extra texture and flavor
### Instructions: How to Make Oatmeal Bread with Apples and Cinnamon
#### 1. **Prepare the Oats**
In a large bowl, combine the **rolled oats** with the **warm water**. Stir in the **honey** or **maple syrup** and allow the oats to soak for about 10 minutes. This helps soften the oats and allows them to absorb the moisture, resulting in a tender and hearty bread.
#### 2. **Activate the Yeast**
While the oats are soaking, dissolve the **active dry yeast** in a small bowl with a few tablespoons of warm water (not too hot, as this can kill the yeast). Let the yeast sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that it’s activated.
#### 3. **Combine the Dry Ingredients**
In another large bowl, whisk together the **whole wheat flour**, **all-purpose flour**, **cinnamon**, and **salt**. This will ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.
#### 4. **Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients**
Once the oats have soaked and the yeast is activated, add the yeast mixture and the **olive oil** to the oat mixture. Stir everything together until combined. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form.
#### 5. **Add the Apples**
Gently fold in the **grated apples** and any optional ingredients like **nuts** or **raisins**. The apples will add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, making it soft and flavorful.
#### 6. **Knead the Dough**
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much. The dough should remain slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
#### 7. **Let the Dough Rise**
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the first rise and helps the bread develop its texture and flavor.
#### 8. **Shape the Dough and Second Rise**
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a greased loaf pan and shape it to fit the pan. Cover the dough with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has puffed up and is ready to bake.
#### 9. **Bake the Bread**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Once the dough has finished its second rise, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for **30-40 minutes** or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the bread should reach an internal temperature of about **190°F (88°C)**.
#### 10. **Cool and Serve**
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once it’s cooled enough to handle.
### Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Bread with Apples and Cinnamon
– **Use Fresh Yeast**: Make sure your yeast is fresh and not expired. If the yeast doesn’t foam after activating, it may not be effective, and your bread might not rise properly.
– **Grate the Apples**: Grating the apples ensures they blend seamlessly into the dough, adding moisture and sweetness without large chunks. You can leave the skin on for extra fiber.
– **Toast the Bread**: For a little extra indulgence, toast slices of this bread and spread with butter or jam. It’s perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
– **Make it Your Own**: Feel free to add other fruits like pears or berries, or experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger. You can also swap the honey for brown sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
### Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Bread
This **Oatmeal Bread with Apples and Cinnamon** is the perfect blend of wholesome and indulgent. The combination of oats and whole wheat flour makes it hearty and satisfying, while the apples and cinnamon provide the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s a bread that’s perfect for any time of day—whether served fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or even as the base for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
Not only does this bread taste amazing, but it’s also a great way to make use of apples that may be nearing their expiration. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in a little extra nutrition while enjoying the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples.
### Conclusion: A Delicious and Cozy Homemade Bread
This **Oatmeal Bread with Apples and Cinnamon** is a true crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to enjoy a slice of homemade bread that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, a snack, or a special occasion, this bread is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. So, preheat the oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a warm, comforting loaf of homemade goodness!
