Oatmeal Quick Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oatmeal Quick Bread is a hearty, wholesome loaf with a mildly sweet and nutty flavor, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. It comes together easily without yeast, thanks to baking powder and baking soda, making it a great option for busy mornings or last-minute baking. The oats give it a satisfying texture and rustic charm.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

old-fashioned rolled oatspurpose flourbrown sugarbaking powderbaking sodasaltbuttermilkvegetable oileggvanilla extract

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 loaf (about 10 slices).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45-55 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra flavor.

Sprinkle oats or a brown sugar topping on the batter before baking for a textured crust.

Swap buttermilk for yogurt or milk with a splash of lemon juice.

Use whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious version.

storage/reheating

Store Oatmeal Quick Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly.

FAQs

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Use milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Why did my bread come out dense?
Overmixing or expired leavening agents can cause density—mix gently and check freshness.

Is this bread sweet?
It has a mild sweetness; adjust sugar to taste.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a flax egg and plant-based milk with vinegar instead of buttermilk.

What oil works best?
Vegetable, canola, or melted coconut oil all work well.

Should the oats be soaked first?
No soaking is necessary—they soften during baking.

Can I add spices?
Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and depth.

Is it okay to use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar?
Yes, but reduce the liquid slightly to compensate.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Quick Bread is a simple, versatile recipe that delivers comforting, nourishing results every time. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a quick snack, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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