This Oatmeal Quick Bread is the ultimate answer to those moments when you crave something wholesome, hearty, and deliciously simple straight from your oven. With its comforting crumb, subtle sweetness, and nutty oats baked right in, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a last-minute side with dinner. Best of all, it’s so approachable that anyone can tackle it—no yeast, no fancy equipment, just pure, cozy satisfaction in every slice!

Oatmeal Quick Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about making Oatmeal Quick Bread is how the most humble pantry staples come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays a key role, from bringing irresistible texture to providing just the right hint of flavor and golden color.

Old-fashioned rolled oats: These give a hearty texture and classic oat flavor that can’t be beat.
All-purpose flour: This is your bread’s backbone, giving it structure and softness at the same time.
Baking powder: The secret to making your Oatmeal Quick Bread rise beautifully without yeast.
Baking soda: Adds just a touch of extra lift and keeps the bread tender.
Salt: A must to enhance all the cozy flavors—don’t skip it!
Brown sugar: Brings sweet warmth and a subtle richness to every bite.
Milk: Adds moisture for a tender crumb; dairy or non-dairy both work well.
Egg: Binds everything together so the finished loaf slices up beautifully.
Melted butter (or oil): Infuses the bread with richness and prevents dryness.
Vanilla extract: Optional, but adds a lovely note of aroma and depth.

How to Make Oatmeal Quick Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. Gather all your ingredients so they’re ready to go—the magic of quick breads is in mixing swiftly and baking right away for best results.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This not only ensures all your leaveners are evenly distributed, but also helps the oats blend beautifully with the flour for a consistent crumb.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, lightly beat your egg, then stir in the brown sugar, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. Make sure your butter has cooled a bit so it doesn’t cook the egg—the key is smooth blending!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; quick breads love a light touch so the result is tender, not tough. It’s okay if you see a few streaks of flour or small lumps.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you like, sprinkle a few extra oats on top for crunch and beauty. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. Let the Oatmeal Quick Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Oatmeal Quick Bread

Garnishes

A pat of butter melting on a warm slice, a light drizzle of honey, or a smear of fruit preserves are all heavenly atop this bread. For a festive touch, you can dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with toasted nuts.

Side Dishes

Oatmeal Quick Bread is a welcome companion to many meals! Serve it with a steaming bowl of soup, fresh salad, or pair it with scrambled eggs and fruit for a satisfying breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cubing the bread and toasting the pieces into croutons for salads, or use thick slices for unique French toast. You can also bake mini loaves for gifting, or slice and layer with yogurt and fruit for a stunning brunch parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap cooled Oatmeal Quick Bread tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will stay moist and fresh on your countertop for up to three days, and a little longer if refrigerated.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces between sheets of parchment paper. Pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container—your Oatmeal Quick Bread will keep beautifully for up to three months.

Reheating

To restore that just-baked warmth, toast slices in your toaster or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes straight from the freezer or fridge. A quick microwave zap also brings back the bread’s tender crumb in seconds.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

While old-fashioned rolled oats give the most texture, you can substitute quick oats if needed. The bread will be a bit less hearty, but still totally delicious and satisfying.

Can I make Oatmeal Quick Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and double-check that your oats are certified gluten-free for a loaf everyone can enjoy.

How do I prevent my Oatmeal Quick Bread from being too dry?

Be sure not to overmix the batter and keep an eye on baking time. Using full-fat milk and a generous hand with the melted butter or oil ensures the bread stays moist and tender.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts, fruits, or chocolate?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, raisins, or even chocolate chips make wonderful additions—fold in up to a cup just before pouring the batter into the pan.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Doubling works well if you need extra loaves. Consider using two loaf pans for even baking, and keep in mind they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy, quick, and truly satisfying bake, look no further than Oatmeal Quick Bread. With its homey flavor and endless ways to customize, this is one recipe you’ll reach for time and time again—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a fresh, warm loaf today!

Oatmeal Quick Bread Recipe