This Flourless Oat and Chia Bread is a wholesome, gluten-free alternative to traditional bread. Packed with the goodness of oats and chia seeds, this bread is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for those who are looking to reduce their gluten intake or simply want to enjoy a healthier bread option. The chia seeds add a delightful crunch and are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, while the oats provide a hearty texture and are rich in fiber. This bread is versatile and can be enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chia Gel: In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds with water. Stir well and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency. This chia gel will help bind the ingredients together, acting as an egg substitute.
- Blend the Oats: Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and blend until they form a fine flour. This will be the base of your bread.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, honey or maple syrup, olive oil or melted coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it to this mixture as well.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the chia gel and mix everything together until well combined. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Transfer to Loaf Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the bread to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Slice and Serve: Once the bread is completely cool, slice it with a sharp knife. Enjoy it plain, or with your favorite toppings such as avocado, nut butter, or a drizzle of honey.
Tips:
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Slice the bread before freezing for easy thawing.
- Variations: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to the batter, such as nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This bread is delicious toasted with a spread of butter or jam. It also makes a great base for sandwiches or a healthy snack on its own.
This Flourless Oat and Chia Bread is not only easy to make but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Enjoy the wholesome flavors and the health benefits that come with each bite!