Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread

Welcome to our kitchen, where we craft recipes that blend wholesome ingredients with delightful flavors. If you’re in search of a delicious and nourishing bread recipe, look no further than our Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread.

This bread is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, featuring the warm, comforting flavors of apple cider, whole wheat flour, honey, and oats. Each slice is a cozy indulgence, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or alongside a steaming cup of tea on a crisp fall day.

Join us as we guide you through the process of creating this comforting loaf. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll soon be enjoying the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen and the taste of wholesome goodness with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the apple cider until it’s warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled apple cider, honey, and olive oil. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
8. Brush the top of the loaf with water and sprinkle with additional rolled oats.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread:

1. Toast and Spread: Enjoy slices of this bread toasted and spread with butter or apple butter for a delicious breakfast or snack. The warm, crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist interior.
2. Pair with Tea or Coffee: Serve alongside a hot cup of tea, coffee, or apple cider for a cozy and comforting treat. The subtle sweetness of the bread complements the warm beverage perfectly.
3. Top with Honey or Jam: Drizzle slices of the bread with honey or spread them with your favorite jam or preserves for an extra burst of sweetness and flavor.
4. Make a Sandwich: Use slices of Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread to make a tasty sandwich. Fill with your favorite ingredients such as sliced turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a satisfying lunch option.
5. Serve with Soup or Salad: Pair slices of this bread with a hearty soup or a crisp salad for a complete and balanced meal. The hearty texture of the bread adds substance to your meal.
6. Create Bread Pudding: Transform leftover slices of bread into a decadent dessert by making bread pudding. Combine slices with a custard mixture, bake until set, and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
7. Gift or Share: Wrap slices of the bread in parchment paper or place them in a decorative tin to give as a thoughtful homemade gift. It’s a delicious way to share the love with family and friends.
8. Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings by adding sliced apples, cinnamon, nuts, or a sprinkle of granola on top of the bread slices for extra flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread:

1. Can I use regular apple juice instead of apple cider? Yes, you can substitute apple juice for apple cider in this recipe. However, keep in mind that apple cider tends to have a richer flavor, which can enhance the overall taste of the bread.
2. Can I make this bread gluten-free? While this recipe calls for whole wheat flour, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend instead. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly from the original recipe.
3. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Quick oats can be used as a substitute for rolled oats in this recipe. However, keep in mind that quick oats may result in a slightly softer texture compared to the chewier texture of rolled oats.
4. How should I store the bread? Store the Apple Cider Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
5. Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the bread? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries. Fold them into the batter just before pouring it into the loaf pan.
6. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf? Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make muffins. Simply pour the batter into greased or lined muffin tins and bake at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Is this bread suitable for vegans? While this recipe includes honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or another vegan-friendly sweetener to make the bread vegan-friendly. Additionally, ensure that the yogurt used is dairy-free or use a plant-based yogurt alternative.
8. Can I use melted butter instead of coconut oil? Yes, melted butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil in this recipe. It will add a rich, buttery flavor to the bread.