The aroma wafts through my kitchen, warm and inviting, a tantalizing hint of what’s to come. Homemade bread has an incredible way of transforming a simple moment into something special, and today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread. Not only does this delightful loaf bring a wholesome flavor and texture to your table, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to craft from start to finish! With minimal prep time and the magic of sourdough fermentation, you'll impress your family and friends while saying goodbye to store-bought. Plus, the combination of honey and oats creates a unique twist that makes each slice a love letter to comfort food. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something truly special? Let’s dive into the delicious world of bread-making!
Why is this bread so special?
Soft, Chewy Texture: The unique blend of honey and oats gives this sourdough a delightful chew, making every bite a joy.
Wholesome Flavor: The natural sweetness from honey perfectly complements the nuttiness of oats, creating a taste that's comforting and satisfying.
Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you'll find the process surprisingly simple, even if you're new to baking.
Versatile Use: Enjoy it fresh for breakfast, as a sandwich, or toasted with your favorite toppings; it's perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Bake this loaf for family gatherings, and watch it disappear in minutes. You could also explore other recipes, like the delicious Gingerbread Bundt Cake or the decadent Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies to please your guests!
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Ingredients
• Get ready to savor the goodness of homemade bread!
For the Dough
- 500 g bread flour – this provides the structure and chewiness essential for our sourdough.
- 100 g rolled oats – adds texture and a nutty flavor to each slice.
- 350 g water (room temperature) – crucial for hydrating the flour and activating the dough.
- 100 g sourdough starter – make sure it's active and bubbly for the best rise.
- 50 g honey – brings a natural sweetness, enhancing both flavor and browning of the crust.
- 10 g salt – strengthens the dough and balances the sweetness of the honey.
- 20 g unsalted butter (melted, optional) – adds richness and moisture, perfect for extra softness.
For the Topping
- Additional oats – sprinkle these on top before baking for a beautiful and crunchy finish.
Enjoy crafting this Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread, a lovely addition to any meal or snack time!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 500 g of bread flour and 100 g of rolled oats. Use a whisk or fork to mix them together until the oats are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step ensures an even texture in your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread, making it delightful in every bite.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend 350 g of room temperature water, 100 g of active sourdough starter, and 50 g of honey until well combined. Don't worry if small streaks of honey are still visible; they will dissolve during the mixing process. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your dough, preparing it for the next step.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, mix them together until a shaggy dough forms. This process can take about 3 minutes. You should see no dry flour remaining, ensuring your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread has a well-hydrated base.
Step 4: Add Butter (Optional)
If you'd like to incorporate some richness, drizzle in 20 g of melted unsalted butter at this point. Stir until it is fully incorporated into the dough, which will contribute to the softness and flavor. This optional step adds a deliciously buttery taste that enhances your finished loaf.
Step 5: Autolyse the Dough
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period, called autolyse, allows the flour to absorb the water and enhances gluten development, resulting in a better texture and rise for your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
Step 6: Incorporate the Salt
After the autolyse, sprinkle 10 g of salt evenly over the dough. To mix it in, stretch and fold the dough over itself several times. This should take around 4 minutes, and you'll know it's ready when the salt is fully dissolved and the dough feels elastic and cohesive.
Step 7: Perform Stretch and Folds
With wet hands to prevent sticking, grab one side of the dough, stretch it upwards, and fold it over itself. Rotate the bowl and repeat this process for a total of 4 rounds, at 30-minute intervals, over a 2-hour period. This technique strengthens your dough, contributing to the structure of your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
Step 8: Shape the Dough
Once your stretch and folds are complete, gently shape the dough into a round ball. Place it seam side up in a well-floured proofing basket or bowl. This shaping encourages a nice rise during the second proofing, making your bread light and airy in the end.
Step 9: Proof the Dough
Cover the dough again and let it proof at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours. You'll know it's ready when it has significantly risen and feels puffy to the touch. This step is crucial for developing the flavor and texture in your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
Step 10: Preheat the Oven
When the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven inside to heat as well, which will help create a perfect baking environment, resulting in a crusty exterior for your finished bread.
Step 11: Score the Dough
Carefully turn your risen dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. Using a sharp knife or blade, score the top with a few shallow cuts to allow steam to escape while baking. If desired, sprinkle additional oats on top for added texture and visual appeal.
Step 12: Bake the Bread
Wearing oven mitts, remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the parchment paper with the dough and carefully place it into the hot pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes to create steam, which is essential for a great crust.
Step 13: Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the lid from the Dutch oven and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread is done when the crust is a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 14: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the texture to set properly. After cooling, it’s perfect for slicing and enjoying the delightful flavors of your homemade Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients—500 g of bread flour and 100 g of rolled oats—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, your sourdough starter can be pre-fed up to 24 hours before use. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients with your prepped dry mix, following the usual steps from autolyse onward. This way, you’ll save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying that delightful homemade bread just as delicious and aromatic as if it were freshly baked!
What to Serve with Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread will inspire you to create a delightful meal experience.
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Savory Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on a slice of honey oat bread delivers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors, elevating breakfast or brunch.
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Homemade Soups: A bowl of rich tomato or hearty lentil soup pairs perfectly with the heartiness of the sourdough, making for a comforting dining moment.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses such as aged cheddar or creamy brie wonderfully complements the sweet notes of honey in the bread for a perfect appetizer.
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Hearty Salad: Tossed greens topped with nuts and a light vinaigrette offer a fresh contrast to the density of the bread, making for a balanced lunch or dinner.
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Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the meal's overall appeal and healthiness.
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Classic Eggs Benedict: Serve your sliced bread underneath poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for a sophisticated twist on a classic breakfast dish, igniting your mornings with luxury.
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Homemade Strawberry Jam: A smear of fresh jam on a warm slice enhances the natural sweetness of the bread, making it an irresistible complement to your breakfast spread.
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Herbal Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of chamomile tea or freshly brewed coffee can balance the sweetness of the honey oat bread, rounding out a delightful meal experience.
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Variations
Feel free to personalize this delicious bread to match your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Vegan Option: Replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version that still retains moisture.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the liquid slightly as needed for consistency.
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Nutty Flavor: Add 50 g of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the oats beautifully.
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Spiced Delight: Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour for a warm spiced undertone that elevates the flavor. It brings a cozy aroma to your kitchen!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough. This adds a fragrant twist, perfect for savory dishes or sandwiches.
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Extra Sweetness: Mix in 50 g of chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a lovely burst of sweetness in every slice. They pair wonderfully with honey's natural sweetness!
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Toasty Crunch: Toast your oats in a dry skillet before adding them to the dough to enhance their nutty flavor and bring a delightful crunch.
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Spicy Kick: For a spicy version, add finely diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dough. This is an exciting twist for those who love a little heat!
With all these variations, you're bound to find a combination that resonates with everyone at your table. Don't hesitate to also explore delightful recipes like the amazing Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread for some festive treats!
Expert Tips for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
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Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active to achieve the best rise in your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
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Don’t Skip Autolyse: Allowing the dough to rest during the autolyse phase is vital for gluten development, leading to better texture and structure.
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Watch the Proofing: Keep an eye on your dough while it proofs; under-proofing can result in dense bread, while over-proofing may cause a collapse.
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Maintain Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly, and let the Dutch oven heat up to create the perfect baking environment for optimal crust development.
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Cool Before Slicing: Patience is key—let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour to set the texture before slicing.
How to Store and Freeze Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread in a bread box or a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup and sogginess.
Fridge: If you need to extend the freshness, place the bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Keep in mind that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture, making it less tender.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a toaster or oven until warmed through. Enjoy warm to experience the delightful softness and chewiness of your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread!
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of bread flour is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use high-protein bread flour for the best results, as it provides the strength needed to trap the gases produced during fermentation, giving your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread its wonderful rise and chewy texture.
How can I tell if my sourdough starter is active and ready to use?
Your starter should be bubbly, have doubled in size after feeding, and smell pleasantly sour. If it passes these tests, you're ready to go! If it's not active, give it a refresh with equal parts water and flour, and let it sit at room temperature for about 4 to 6 hours before using it.
How should I store my leftover bread to keep it fresh?
For room temperature storage, a bread box or paper bag works wonders! Your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread can stay fresh for up to 3 days this way. If you'd like to keep it longer, wrap slices in plastic wrap, then in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze this bread, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread! After cooling completely, slice the loaf and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the slices in a freezer bag or airtight container. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick warmth!
What do I do if my bread doesn't rise as expected?
If your bread doesn't rise, it could be due to an inactive sourdough starter, under-proofing, or even cooler kitchen temperatures. Always ensure your starter is bubbly and active before using, and allow enough time for proofing. Sometimes, using a warm spot in your kitchen can prompt better results—just find a cozy nook!
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies, like gluten intolerance?
Unfortunately, this recipe contains gluten due to the bread flour. If you or someone you bake for has gluten intolerance or celiac disease, consider using a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for bread-making. Just be aware that the texture may differ from traditional sourdough.
Create Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour and rolled oats. Mix until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, blend water, sourdough starter, and honey until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Optionally, drizzle in melted butter and stir until incorporated.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle salt over the dough and stretch and fold it several times until salt is dissolved.
- With wet hands, stretch and fold the dough over itself for a total of 4 rounds.
- Gently shape the dough into a round ball and place seam side up in a floured basket.
- Cover the dough and let it proof at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and heat a Dutch oven inside.
- Turn the risen dough onto parchment paper, score the top, and sprinkle additional oats.
- Place the dough in the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
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