There's something magical about the way freshly baked bread fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread—a masterpiece that’s equal parts nourishing and delightful. This homemade bread is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for adventurous home chefs eager to swap fast food for something truly special. With the delightful crunch of oats and a hint of sweetness from honey, your breakfast or snack time will become an exceptional experience. Plus, this recipe is an absolute joy to mold and shape, allowing you to unleash your creativity with each batch. Are you ready to fill your home with that irresistible aroma and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own sourdough? Let’s dive in!
Why is this bread so irresistible?
Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this masterpiece.
Irresistible aroma: Imagine the heavenly scent wafting through your kitchen—this bread makes that dream a reality!
Nutrient-rich: Thanks to the oats and honey, each slice is packed with wholesome goodness that you can feel good about.
Versatile topping options: Whether you prefer a classic butter spread or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness, this bread pairs perfectly with many toppings.
Perfect for sharing: Hosts will love that this recipe results in a loaf that invites others to gather around the table. For more delicious homemade bread ideas, check out my favorite sourdough variations.
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful loaf!
For the Dough
• 500 g bread flour – This provides the structure and texture for your sourdough bread.
• 100 g rolled oats – Adds a delicious chewiness and wholesome flavor to the bread.
• 350 g water (room temperature) – Ensure your water is at room temperature for the best fermentation.
• 100 g sourdough starter – The key ingredient that makes this bread rise and gives it that distinctive tang.
• 50 g honey – Sweetens the bread naturally while enhancing the flavor.
• 10 g salt – Essential for flavor and controlling yeast activity in the dough.
• 20 g unsalted butter (melted, optional) – Adds richness; omit for a dairy-free version.
For the Topping
• Additional oats – Sprinkle these on top for an appealing look and extra texture.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's embark on this delightful baking journey together!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 500 g of bread flour and 100 g of rolled oats. Ensure the oats are evenly distributed to create a homogenous mixture. This base will provide the structure for your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread, so take a moment to mix well before moving on.
Step 2: Mix 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 fully combined. This mixture should appear smooth and slightly bubbly, indicating that the starter is lively. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients to start forming your dough.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir the combined ingredients until a shaggy dough begins to form. This process usually takes about 2–3 minutes. The dough will seem sticky and somewhat loose at this stage, but that's perfectly normal. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even mix.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter
If you choose to use it, add 20 g of melted unsalted butter to the dough. Continue mixing until the butter is fully integrated, which may take 2–3 additional minutes. You should feel the texture of the dough change to a more cohesive and smooth consistency, ready for the next steps.
Step 5: Autolyse the Dough
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This rest, known as autolyse, allows the flour to hydrate and gluten to develop, creating a better structure for your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
Step 6: Add Salt
After the resting period, sprinkle 10 g of salt over the surface of the dough. Using your hands, stretch and fold the dough several times to incorporate the salt. This step is crucial for flavor enhancement and helps activate the yeast, leading to a delightful rise in your bread.
Step 7: Stretch and Fold
For the next 2 hours, perform a series of stretch and folds every 30 minutes. Dampen your hands to prevent sticking, grab one side of the dough, stretch it upwards, and fold it over itself. Repeat this a total of 4 times. You’ll notice the dough become softer and more elastic over time, indicating progress.
Step 8: Shape the Dough
After your last stretch and fold, turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and shape it into a round ball. Place the shaped dough seam side up in a floured proofing basket or bowl. Ensure it’s snug inside to help it hold its shape during the final proofing stage.
Step 9: Proof the Dough
Cover the proofing basket with a cloth and let the dough proof at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours. You're aiming for a significant rise; visually, the dough should look puffy and have increased in volume. This is the perfect time to enjoy the tantalizing aroma that begins to fill your kitchen.
Step 10: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven inside to heat up for about 30 minutes. This step is vital for achieving a crisp crust on your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread, so don’t skip it!
Step 11: Score the Dough
Gently turn the proofed dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. Using a sharp knife or blade, score the top with a few slashes to allow steam to escape during baking. Optionally, sprinkle additional oats on top for texture and presentation.
Step 12: Bake the Bread
Wearing oven mitts, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the parchment paper and place it with the dough into the heated pot. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the steam to create a beautifully crusty exterior.
Step 13: Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the lid to allow the crust to crisp up nicely. Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the bread is a deep golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 14: Cool the Bread
Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. This cooling period helps the interior continue to set and enhances the flavors of your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread.
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
There's nothing quite like enjoying your freshly baked loaf alongside delectable pairings that enhance its delightful flavor.
- Creamy Avocado Toast: Spread ripe avocado on warm slices for a creamy, healthful topping that perfectly complements the bread's texture.
- Scratch-made Tomato Soup: The savory notes of a fresh tomato soup provide a comforting contrast, making for a cozy, satisfying meal.
- Fluffy Scrambled Eggs: The lightness of fluffy scrambled eggs pairs wonderfully with the chewy oats, creating a delicious breakfast option.
- Honey Butter Spread: Mix butter and honey for a sweet treat! This easy spread adds an irresistible touch to each slice.
- Crisp Caesar Salad: A freshness from the salad balances the hearty bread, while the dressing's richness adds depth to your meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits lightens up your plate, offering a refreshing contrast to the bread’s warmth.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can elevate your dining experience, making the meal feel even more special.
- Rich Chocolate Cake: For dessert, serve slices of moist chocolate cake—its richness will satisfy any sweet tooth following your bread feast.
Expert Tips for Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active. An inactive starter can lead to dense bread.
• Correct Hydration: If your dough feels too sticky, don’t be tempted to add too much flour. Adjust gradually to maintain the soft texture of your bread.
• Pay Attention to Proofing: Don’t rush the proofing stage. If the dough doesn’t feel puffy after 4 to 6 hours, give it more time to rise fully for the best results.
• Score with Precision: Scoring helps control how your bread expands in the oven. Use a sharp blade to make confident slashes on the surface of the dough.
• Cool Completely: Allow the Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread to cool for at least an hour before slicing. This ensures the interior sets properly and enhances flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
Room Temperature: Keep your freshly baked bread in an airtight container or bread bag for up to 3 days to maintain its soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a humid environment, storing the bread in the fridge can extend its life for up to a week, but be aware it may affect its texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To restore its delightful crunch, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread will taste freshly baked again!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance before the final proofing. Simply follow steps 1-8, then place the shaped dough in the proofing basket, cover it, and refrigerate to slow down fermentation. The cold temperature helps maintain quality, ensuring your bread is just as delicious when baked. When ready to serve, remove it from the fridge, let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour before baking, and then proceed with the final steps. By preparing this scrumptious sourdough bread ahead of time, you'll enjoy homemade bread with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and transform this delightful bread into something uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you use a binding agent like xanthan gum.
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Whole Wheat: For a heartier loaf, swap half the bread flour for whole wheat flour, embracing a warm, nutty flavor.
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Sweet Additions: Enhance the sweetness by adding 50 g of dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy burst of flavor.
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Nuts & Seeds: Stir in 50 g of walnuts or sunflower seeds for a lovely crunch and added nutrients. These additions create a delightful texture that keeps every bite interesting.
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Herbed Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a fragrant twist that pairs perfectly with soups or as a savory side.
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Honey Variations: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile, lending a unique flavor that still keeps the bread moist.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, inviting flavor that’s especially perfect for breakfast toasting.
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Cheese-Lover's Delight: Fold in 100 g of shredded cheese into the dough for a savory, cheesy experience that takes your bread to the next level. It’s like having a gourmet treat with each slice!
These variations not only enhance the flavor but also allow you to adapt the recipe to your personal taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out my favorite sourdough variations or explore how to pair this scrumptious bread with delightful cheese spreads!
Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for this bread?
I recommend using rolled oats, as they provide that delightful chew and texture you crave in every slice. Avoid instant oats, as they don't have the same hearty flavor or structure.
How should I store my Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread?
For the best freshness, keep your bread in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its life to about a week, although it may slightly alter the texture.
Can I freeze the leftover bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature, then pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its warm, freshly baked quality.
What should I do if my dough isn't rising properly during proofing?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to your sourdough starter not being active enough. Before you begin, ensure your starter is bubbly and has been fed recently. If your dough feels dense after the proofing period, give it more time! Sometimes, slower fermentation leads to better flavor. As a general rule, keep an eye on it—if it feels puffy, you're ready to bake!
Is this recipe suitable for individuals with allergies?
Always check ingredient labels, as allergies can vary. This recipe contains gluten due to the bread flour; if you're gluten-sensitive, consider using a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for bread. Additionally, the recipe contains honey, so for those who avoid animal products, you can substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.
Can I use different types of flour in this recipe?
While I recommend using bread flour for best results to achieve that fantastic chew and structure, you can substitute up to 50% of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor. Simply remember that whole wheat flour may require a little more water due to its higher absorption capacity!
Irresistibly Soft and Chewy Honey Oat Sourdough Bread
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- proofing basket
- Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 500 g bread flour This provides the structure and texture for your sourdough bread.
- 100 g rolled oats Adds a delicious chewiness and wholesome flavor to the bread.
- 350 g water Ensure your water is at room temperature for the best fermentation.
- 100 g sourdough starter The key ingredient that makes this bread rise and gives it that distinctive tang.
- 50 g honey Sweetens the bread naturally while enhancing the flavor.
- 10 g salt Essential for flavor and controlling yeast activity in the dough.
- 20 g unsalted butter melted, optional; adds richness; omit for a dairy-free version.
For the Topping
- additional oats Sprinkle these on top for an appealing look and extra texture.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour and rolled oats.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend room temperature water, sourdough starter, and honey until fully combined.
- Form the Dough: Stir the combined ingredients until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Incorporate Butter: Add melted unsalted butter, continuing to mix until fully integrated.
- Autolyse the Dough: Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Add Salt: Sprinkle salt over the dough and stretch and fold to incorporate.
- Stretch and Fold: Perform stretch and folds every 30 minutes for 2 hours.
- Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round ball.
- Proof the Dough: Cover and let the dough proof at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
- Score the Dough: Turn the proofed dough onto parchment paper and score the top.
- Bake the Bread: Place the dough in the Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Cool the Bread: Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
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