This Gluten-Free Oat Bread with Mixed Seeds is a healthy, easy-to-make bread that is packed with fiber and nutrients. The oat flakes provide a hearty base, while the kefir (or yogurt) adds moisture and a slight tanginess. The addition of mixed seeds not only gives the bread a delightful crunch but also boosts its nutritional value, providing healthy fats and protein. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side with your favorite dishes, this bread is a simple, wholesome alternative to store-bought bread. It’s gluten-free, delicious, and incredibly satisfying.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 90g oat flakes (use gluten-free if needed)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons mixed seeds (e.g., sunflower, pumpkin, chia, flax)
- 200 ml kefir or yogurt
- 1 medium egg
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Seeds for decoration (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it is ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flakes, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Add Mixed Seeds:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin, chia, or flax seeds) for added texture and nutrients.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together 200 ml of kefir (or yogurt), 1 medium egg, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Mix until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is well combined. You should have a thick, slightly pourable batter.
6. Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Line a 20 x 10 cm (8 x 4 inches) baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
7. Transfer the Batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. For a decorative touch, sprinkle additional seeds on top.
8. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top.
9. Cool:
- Allow the oat bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
- Slice and enjoy the oat bread on its own, or with your favorite spreads such as butter, honey, or nut butter. It’s also great for making open-faced sandwiches with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
- With spreads: Top your slice of oat bread with a spread of butter, almond butter, or peanut butter for a filling breakfast or snack.
- As a sandwich: Use the oat bread for making sandwiches with fillings like turkey, cheese, avocado, or vegetables.
- For breakfast: Enjoy a warm slice with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or some fresh fruit for a wholesome start to your day.
Cooking Tips
- Use gluten-free oats: If you’re making this bread gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
- Add more seeds: Feel free to add more mixed seeds to the batter for extra crunch and nutritional value.
- Test for doneness: To ensure the bread is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
- Make it sweeter: For a slightly sweeter bread, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
Variations to Try
- Herb-infused: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the batter for a savory twist.
- Fruit and nut version: Mix in some dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries) and chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) for a more indulgent variation.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Nutritional Benefits
This oat bread provides a rich source of fiber from the oats, which is great for digestion and heart health. The kefir or yogurt adds probiotics to support gut health, while the seeds provide healthy fats and protein. This bread is naturally gluten-free (if you use certified gluten-free oats), making it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities. It’s also a nutritious alternative to traditional bread, packed with vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
This Gluten-Free Oat Bread with Mixed Seeds is an easy-to-make, wholesome bread that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or with your favorite toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-try, and with endless customization options, you can make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use regular milk instead of kefir or yogurt? Yes, you can substitute kefir or yogurt with regular milk if you don’t have them available. However, the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
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Can I use a different oil? Yes, you can use olive oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil as an alternative to sunflower oil.
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Can I make this bread without eggs? Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or another egg substitute.
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Can I freeze this bread? Yes, this bread freezes well. Slice it up and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
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How long will this bread last? The bread will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also refrigerate it to extend its freshness for up to a week.