This Apple Pecan Oatmeal Bread is a deliciously hearty loaf, filled with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or as a savory side to any meal, this bread is sure to satisfy. Plus, the oatmeal adds a lovely texture and nutrition, making this bread an all-around win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Pecan Oatmeal Bread is the perfect combination of flavors and textures—sweet apples, toasted pecans, and hearty oats all baked into a soft, fluffy loaf. The cinnamon gives it a warm, comforting aroma, making it a great addition to any morning or snack time. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a smear of butter, or as part of your favorite sandwich, this bread is sure to be a family favorite!

Apple Pecan Oatmeal Bread

Ingredients

2 packages (1 TBSP + 1 1/2 tsp) active dry yeast (e.g., Red Star)
1/2 cup warm water
1 cup warm milk
1 cup warm buttermilk
2 TBSP vegetable oil
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tsp salt
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (e.g., Quaker)
1 tsp cinnamon
5 cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
2 cups coarsely chopped tart apples
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
Additional oat flakes or rolled oats, for sprinkling in pan and topping
1 large egg, beaten with 1 TBSP cold water, for topping

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

Directions

In a large bowl, stir yeast into warm water to soften.
Add warm milk, buttermilk, oil, brown sugar, salt, oats, cinnamon, 2 cups flour, chopped apples, and pecans. Beat vigorously for 2 minutes.
Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough becomes stiff enough to knead.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead, adding flour as necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning to coat it with oil, and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until puffy.
Grease two 9″ x 5″ or 10″ x 5″ loaf pans, and sprinkle with rolled oats.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly oiled surface, divide in half, and shape into loaves. Place the loaves into the prepared pans.
Cover with lightly greased plastic and let rise until nearly doubled, about 45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the loaves with the egg/water mixture and sprinkle with additional rolled oats.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the loaves reaches 190°F (88°C).
Immediately remove the bread from the pans and cool on a rack to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 loaves
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Dried Fruit: Swap out the fresh apples for dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a variation in texture and taste.
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based milk and oil in place of the buttermilk and vegetable oil, and replace the egg wash with a plant-based alternative.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage: Store bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven or toaster for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour if you prefer, but it may affect the texture of the bread.

2. Can I make this bread without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

3. Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of tart apple like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp for a slightly different flavor.

4. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C). You can also tap the bottom of the loaf, and if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.

5. Can I add other spices to this bread?

Yes, you can add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and flavor.

6. Can I double the recipe to make more loaves?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make four loaves. Just make sure to adjust the rising times as needed.

7. Can I bake this in a bread machine?

While this recipe isn’t specifically designed for a bread machine, you can try following the bread machine’s instructions for adding ingredients and using the dough cycle. You would then bake the bread in the oven as directed.

8. How can I make this bread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of brown sugar or drizzle with honey after baking.

9. Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of fresh apples?

Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for the fresh apples, though the texture may be a little different.

10. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape it into loaves, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, let it thaw and rise before baking.

Conclusion

This Apple Pecan Oatmeal Bread is a warm, comforting loaf filled with sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and hearty oats. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s both delicious and nutritious. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a wonderful homemade treat to enjoy year-round!