There’s something so comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. It brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the golden sun streamed through the windows, illuminating the flour dust that danced in the air. She would often make a simple batter bread, but I decided to add a twist by incorporating oats and a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness. This modern take on her classic recipe has become a staple in my family, creating moments of joy and warmth at the breakfast table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar added)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work well)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together the honey, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and eggs until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
If you’re using nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage. This adds a lovely crunch and enhances the flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the sunflower seeds on top for a delightful crunch and a pop of texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, 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.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey-Oat Batter Bread is delightful warm, slathered with a bit of butter or enjoyed with a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. You can also toast it the next day for a crispy, nutty flavor that will brighten your mornings.
As you enjoy this bread, may it remind you of the cozy moments spent in the kitchen, filled with laughter and love, just as I experienced with my grandmother. Happy baking!