Flourless Oat and Chia Bread

🥖 Flourless Oat and Chia Bread

Description

This Flourless Oat and Chia Bread is a wholesome, high-fiber, and nutrient-dense loaf made entirely without refined flour. It’s perfect for those looking for a gluten-free, heart-healthy, and protein-rich bread option. The oats provide a hearty texture, while chia seeds help bind the dough and add a subtle nutty flavor. This bread slices beautifully, toasts well, and pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory toppings.

🍞 Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)

• ¼ cup chia seeds

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (activates baking soda)

• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan version – 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water)

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for mild sweetness)

🔪 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan (8×4-inch) with parchment paper or grease lightly with oil.

2. Prepare oat flour:
   Add rolled oats to a blender or food processor and blend until they reach a flour-like consistency.

3. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, chia seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

4. Prepare wet mixture:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, eggs, and honey (if using).

5. Combine wet and dry:
   Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Let the batter sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken the batter.

6. Pour and bake:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
   Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool completely:
   Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

🧈 Serving Suggestions

• Spread with avocado and sprinkle with chili flakes for a savory breakfast.

• Top with peanut butter and banana for a sweet, protein-packed snack.

• Serve alongside soups or salads for added fiber and texture.

• Toast and serve with hummus or nut butter.

Servings: Makes about 10 slices (1 loaf)

⚖️ Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.)

(Values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

💪 Health Benefits

✅ Gluten-Free & Flourless: Great for those avoiding refined flour or gluten.
✅ Rich in Fiber: Oats and chia seeds support digestion and gut health.
✅ Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive or coconut oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
✅ Protein Source: Balanced combination of oats, chia, and eggs support muscle maintenance.
✅ Low-Glycemic: Keeps blood sugar levels stable for longer-lasting energy.
✅ Omega-3 Boost: Chia seeds provide plant-based omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for brain health.

💡 Notes & Tips

• Texture Tip: Letting the batter rest before baking is key to getting a dense but moist crumb.

• Vegan Option: Substitute flax eggs for regular eggs and use maple syrup instead of honey.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Slice and freeze in a zip bag. Toast directly from frozen when needed.

• Flavor Add-ins: Try adding herbs (like rosemary), nuts, or seeds for variety.

❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
➡️ No, steel-cut oats won’t blend into a fine flour easily. Rolled oats or quick oats work best.

Q2: Why is my bread too dense or wet?
➡️ It might need a longer baking time, or the chia seeds didn’t have enough time to absorb liquid. Let it rest longer before baking.

Q3: Can I make this bread without eggs?
➡️ Yes! Use flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water). The texture will be slightly denser but still delicious.

Q4: How do I make it more flavorful?
➡️ Add herbs, spices (like cinnamon or garlic powder), or mix-ins like sunflower seeds.

Q5: Is this bread good for weight loss?
➡️ Absolutely — it’s nutrient-dense, high in fiber, and keeps you full longer without refined carbs.