- Bread Experience Newsletter
- Posts
- š¾Baking with Oats- Two Recipes, Endless Possibilities
š¾Baking with Oats- Two Recipes, Endless Possibilities
Dive into the contrast of soaked and toasted oats in this monthās bakes


As I was making the bread of the month for the Bread Baking Babesāa batch of fluffy, wholesome oatmeal bunsāit brought to mind another favorite we baked a while back: a hearty sourdough loaf made with toasted oats.
Thinking about these two breads reminded me just how versatile oats can be in bread baking. One method yields a tender, comforting crumb, and the other offers a deep, nutty complexity.
Letās take a closer look at how these two methodsāsoaking and toastingābring out such distinct and delicious qualities in each bake.
šHighlights:
The Soaked Oat Bake
The Toasted Oat Bake
Serving Suggestions
Quick Tips
Which method speaks to you?
š«§ The Soaked Oat Bake: Softness & Subtle Sweetness
In Wholesome Oatmeal Buns, soaked oats are the star of the show. By resting them in hot water, the oats plump up and integrate seamlessly into the dough, adding moisture and tenderness.
The buns are fluffy with a slightly sweet aromaāideal for breakfast sandwiches, brunch spreads, or just warm from the oven with a pat of butter. The dough is smooth and supple, rising easily and baking to a gentle golden hue.

āThereās something about the quiet transformation of soaked oatsāhow they melt into the dough, adding comfort and richness without demanding attention.ā
ā”ļø Get the recipe here!
š„ The Toasted Oat Bake: Depth & Nutty Aroma
In contrast, Sourdough Einkorn Toasted Oats Bread uses a very different approachāone that brings boldness and texture. Toasting the oats before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor, giving the bread a deeper, almost caramelized nuttiness.
Pairing toasted oats with einkorn flour intensifies the flavor profile, creating a loaf that feels rustic, nourishing, and satisfying. The toasted oats stay distinct in the crumb, giving each slice a bit of chew and complexity. The scent alone, both during toasting and baking, is an experience in itself.

āThis loaf had a presenceānutty, bold, satisfying in a different way. The toasted oats gave it soul.ā
ā”ļø Get the recipe here!
š½ļø Serving Suggestions: Simple Ways to Enjoy Each Style
Whether you lean toward the softness of soaked oats or the depth of toasted ones, these breads are wonderfully versatile. Here are a few pairing ideas to bring out their best at any time of day:
For Soaked Oat Buns
The wholegrain oatmeal buns are naturally mild, making them a lovely canvas for sweet or savory flavors.
Morning Treat: Spread with honey butter or whipped cream cheese and a spoonful of seasonal jamātry strawberry-rhubarb or peach.
Brunch Star: Slice and fill with a soft scrambled egg, avocado, and microgreens.
Dinner Companion: Serve warm alongside a summer soup, like chilled cucumber or a light tomato-basil bisque.
For Toasted Oat Einkorn Bread
With its rustic crust and nutty crumb, this sourdough-style loaf holds its own with bold flavors.
Savory Toast: Top with sharp white cheddar, sliced green apple, and a drizzle of hot honey.
Hearty Sandwich: Stack with roasted vegetables, goat cheese, and pesto for a nourishing lunch.
Rustic Snack Board: Toast slices and serve with olive tapenade, marinated feta, and pickled onions.
Whether youāre crafting a cozy breakfast or building a vibrant summer meal, these oat-forward breads rise to the occasion.
š” Quick Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Oats
Here are a few tips to enhance your oat-baking adventures:
Soak Before You Mix: Pour boiling water over the oats and let them rest until they are cooled. This creates a silky blend that boosts moisture.
Toast With Care: Use a dry pan and medium-low heat. Stir frequently and stop toasting as soon as they turn golden and fragrant.
Adjust Hydration: Soaked oats add moisture; toasted ones absorb a bit more. Watch your dough and trust your hands.
Oats As Topping: Brush dough with milk or egg wash and sprinkle with oats before baking for a delightful finish.
š§© Have You Tried Baking with Soaked or Toasted Oats?
Iād love to hear which method speaks to you most.
š¬Hit reply and tell me about it!
šøAre you baking along? Tag me on Instagram @bread_experience and show off your oats!
I canāt wait to see what you create! šāØ
š Until next time, may your kitchen be filled with the scent of fresh bread and the quiet joy that comes from working with your handsāone oat, at a time.
Happy baking!
Cathy, Bread Experience