Homemade Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Recipe

Honey Oat Sourdough Bread combines the natural tang of sourdough with the sweetness of honey and the hearty texture of oats. This delightful bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. Here’s a simple recipe to bake your own Honey Oat Sourdough Bread at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (180 grams) rolled oats
• 3 cups water
• 2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 100 grams unfed (discard) sourdough starter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted or softened
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup (120 grams) whole wheat flour
• Approximately 5 cups (600 grams) bread flour
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• Additional oats for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oats:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats with 3 cups of hot tap water. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to soften and cool slightly.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • To the cooled oats, add instant yeast, unfed sourdough starter, honey, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
   • Incorporate whole wheat flour and salt into the mixture.
   • Gradually add bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
4. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
   • Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides.
   • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
   • Punch down the risen dough to release gases.
   • Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding and tucking the edges underneath.
   • Place the shaped loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf pan with a towel or plastic wrap.
   • Allow the dough to rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
   • Gently brush the top of the risen loaf with the egg wash and sprinkle with additional oats for a decorative touch.
8. Bake the Bread:
   • Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
   • For accuracy, the internal temperature of the bread should reach 190°F (88°C).
9. Cool the Bread:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the loaf to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Oat Sourdough Bread

1. Use Active Sourdough Starter – Ensure your sourdough starter is healthy and active for the best flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Skip the Oat Soak – Soaking the oats softens them, preventing a dry or dense loaf.
3. Knead Until Smooth – Proper kneading develops gluten, leading to a soft yet chewy bread.
4. Let It Rise Fully – A slow, proper rise gives the bread its airy texture and deep flavor.
5. Use Egg Wash for a Golden Crust – Brushing the top with egg wash creates a beautiful golden brown crust.
6. Check Doneness with a Thermometer – Bread is fully baked when its internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
7. Cool Before Slicing – Letting the bread cool completely prevents it from becoming gummy inside.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Oat Sourdough Bread

• Naturally Sweet Flavor – The honey gives a mild sweetness without being overpowering.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – Thanks to oats and sourdough, this bread has a perfect balance of softness and chewiness.
• Nutritious and Wholesome – Made with whole wheat flour, sourdough, and oats, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients.
• Versatile – Use it for toast, sandwiches, or enjoy it with butter and honey.
• Homemade Goodness – Freshly baked bread always tastes better than store-bought!

FAQs

1. Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?
Yes! You can replace the sourdough starter with an additional 1 teaspoon of instant yeast.

2. How do I store this bread?
Keep it in an airtight container or wrapped in a kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

3. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats make it softer.

4. Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes! Simply skip the egg wash or use milk instead for a slightly lighter crust.

5. How do I make the crust extra crunchy?
Bake with steam by placing a pan of hot water in the oven, or mist the bread with water before baking.

Enjoy your homemade Honey Oat Sourdough Bread with your favorite spreads, as a base for sandwiches, or simply on its own. Happy baking!

Don’t Miss: Honey Oat Bread Recipe