Maine Oat Molasses Bread: A Recipe for a Cozy Classic
Are you ready to bake up a loaf of pure comfort? This Maine Oat Molasses Bread recipe is the perfect blend of hearty oats, rich molasses, and a warm, inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen with the spirit of home. Perfect for a chilly autumn evening or a cozy Sunday brunch, this bread is a true testament to New England baking tradition. This recipe is optimized for search engines while maintaining a reader-friendly and engaging style.
Why This Recipe is Special
This isn't just any oat molasses bread; this is a Maine oat molasses bread recipe, imbued with the spirit of the region's baking heritage. We’ve focused on using simple, high-quality ingredients to achieve a deep, complex flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. The recipe emphasizes the textures and flavors associated with classic Maine baking, offering a delicious and satisfying result.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats: Provides a hearty texture and nutty flavor. Consider using certified Maine oats for an authentic touch!
- 1 cup boiling water: Used to create a porridge-like mixture, adding moisture and depth.
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F): Activates the yeast for optimal rise.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: The key ingredient for a light and airy loaf.
- ⅓ cup molasses: Contributes the signature rich sweetness and deep color.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances the bitterness of the molasses and provides structure.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and controls yeast activity.
- 2 large eggs: Add richness and bind the ingredients together.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture. You may need to add a little more or less depending on your flour and humidity.
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and tenderness. Slightly cooled butter helps prevent killing the yeast.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
- Prepare the Oat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and boiling water. Let it stand for at least 15 minutes to soften the oats. This step creates a porridge-like texture, contributing moisture and a unique flavour to the bread.
- Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the molasses, salt, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the oat mixture and flour into the wet ingredients until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Maine Oat Molasses Bread
- Use good quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your bread will taste!
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing: This allows the crumb to set and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Maine Oat Molasses Bread! It's the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea, and a delightful treat for any occasion. Share your baking experiences with us using #MaineOatMolassesBread!
