🌾Baking with Oats- Two Recipes, Endless Possibilities

Dive into the contrast of soaked and toasted oats in this month’s bakes

As I was making the bread of the month for the Bread Baking Babes—a batch of fluffy, wholesome oatmeal buns—it 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.

Let’s take a closer look at how these two methods—soaking and toasting—bring out such distinct and delicious qualities in each bake.

🌟Highlights:

  • The Soaked Oat Bake

  • The Toasted Oat Bake

  • Serving Suggestions

  • Quick Tips

  • Which method speaks to you?

🫧 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 aroma—ideal 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.

ā€œThere’s something about the quiet transformation of soaked oats—how they melt into the dough, adding comfort and richness without demanding attention.ā€

āž”ļø Get the recipe here! 

šŸ”„ The Toasted Oat Bake: Depth & Nutty Aroma

In contrast, Sourdough Einkorn Toasted Oats Bread uses a very different approach—one 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.

ā€œThis loaf had a presence—nutty, bold, satisfying in a different way. The toasted oats gave it soul.ā€

āž”ļø Get the recipe here! 

šŸ½ļø 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 jam—try 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 you’re crafting a cozy breakfast or building a vibrant summer meal, these oat-forward breads rise to the occasion.

šŸ’” 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.

🧩 Have You Tried Baking with Soaked or Toasted Oats?

I’d love to hear which method speaks to you most.

šŸ’¬Hit reply and tell me about it!

šŸ“øAre you baking along? Tag me on Instagram @bread_experience and show off your oats! 

I can’t wait to see what you create! 😊✨

šŸž Until next time, may your kitchen be filled with the scent of fresh bread and the quiet joy that comes from working with your hands—one oat, at a time.

Happy baking! 
Cathy, Bread Experience