Oatmeal Quick Bread

Oatmeal Quick Bread is a wholesome, hearty loaf made with simple pantry ingredients and no yeast required. It’s soft, slightly nutty, and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or pairing with soups and stews. With its rustic texture and comforting flavor, this easy bread is a must-try for home bakers of all levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect when you want homemade bread without the wait. There’s no kneading or rising time needed—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Oatmeal adds fiber and a mild nutty flavor, while the tender crumb makes it ideal for slicing and toasting. It’s versatile, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable with sweet or savory add-ins.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats
• All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Brown sugar or honey
• Buttermilk (or milk + vinegar/lemon juice substitute)
• Eggs
• Melted butter or oil
• Optional: nuts, seeds, dried fruit, cinnamon

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Makes 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Sweet version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, or a swirl of jam.
• Savory version: Skip the sugar and mix in shredded cheese, herbs, or chopped scallions.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk + vinegar instead of buttermilk and eggs.
• Low-sugar: Reduce or omit sweetener depending on your taste and toppings.

storage/reheating

Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, toast slices or warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer. Avoid using instant oats or steel-cut oats.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Use 1 cup of milk plus 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

How do I make this vegan?

Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk + vinegar.

Is this bread sweet or savory?

It can be either! Adjust the sugar and add-ins to suit your preference.

Can I add fruit or nuts?

Absolutely. Add about ½ cup of chopped nuts, dried cranberries, raisins, or even grated apple.

How do I keep the bread moist?

Don’t overbake, and be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap tightly.

What should I serve it with?

Great with butter, jam, nut butter, cheese, or as a side to soups and salads.

Can I toast this bread?

Yes, it toasts beautifully and holds up well with spreads or toppings.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?

It could be underbaked, too much liquid, or overmixing. Be sure to follow measurements and check doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Quick Bread is a comforting, no-fuss recipe that brings the heartiness of oats into a soft, flavorful loaf. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you go sweet or savory, this quick bread is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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