This nutritious bread alternative combines the wholesome goodness of oats with protein-rich Greek yogurt to create a satisfying loaf that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber. Unlike traditional bread, this recipe relies on oats as the base, creating a dense, hearty texture that’s perfect for those seeking a more nutritious option. The combination of nuts, seeds, and yogurt provides healthy fats, protein, and probiotics, making this bread a nourishing choice for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats – 400g / 14 oz / 2 cups
- Large eggs – 2 whole
- Greek yogurt – 30g / 1 oz / 2 tablespoons
- Walnuts – 150g / 5.3 oz / 1 cup (finely chopped)
- Sunflower seeds – 15g / 0.5 oz / 1 tablespoon
- Pumpkin seeds – 15g / 0.5 oz / 1 tablespoon
- Baking powder – 12g / 0.4 oz / 1 tablespoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon / 5g
- Sesame seeds – for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, eggs, Greek yogurt, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the oats are well coated and the mixture begins to hold together.
- Add nuts and seeds: Finely chop the walnuts and add them to the oat mixture along with sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. Mix well to distribute evenly.
- Add leavening: Sprinkle baking powder over the mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
- Let mixture rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes. This gives the oats time to absorb moisture and swell, creating better binding.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing down gently to create an even surface. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake thoroughly: Place in preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 10-12 slices
Nutrition (per slice)
Calories: 185 | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 18g | Protein: 7g | Fiber: 4g
Why This Bread Alternative Works
This oat-based bread provides significant nutritional advantages over traditional wheat bread. Oats are rich in beta-glucan fiber, which helps regulate cholesterol levels and supports digestive health. The combination of eggs and Greek yogurt adds high-quality protein while the yogurt contributes beneficial probiotics for gut health. Walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and heart health, while the various seeds add minerals like magnesium and zinc. The absence of refined flour means this bread has a lower glycemic impact, helping maintain steadier blood sugar levels. However, it’s worth noting that while this is a nutritious alternative, the texture and flavor will be quite different from traditional bread – it’s denser and more cake-like. For those avoiding gluten or seeking higher protein options, this can be a valuable addition to their diet, but it shouldn’t necessarily replace all bread if someone enjoys and tolerates regular bread well.