The Story Behind the Bread

Every great recipe has a story, and this Banana Cherry Oatmeal Bread is a testament to the magic of comfort baking. Inspired by lazy weekend mornings and the desire to create something both nutritious and indulgent, this bread brings together the heartiness of oats, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the tart burst of cherries. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in bread form, perfect for those mornings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

US Measurements

• 10.5 oz (about 2 cups) of oat flakes
• 2.8 oz (about 1/2 cup) chopped walnuts
• 4 tablespoons sugar or sweetener
• 1 apple, finely chopped
• 1 banana, peeled and cut into slices
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Metric Measurements

• 300 grams oat flakes
• 80 grams chopped walnuts
• 60 ml sugar or sweetener
• 1 apple, finely chopped
• 1 banana, peeled and cut into slices
• 1 large egg
• 240 ml milk
• 150 grams cherries
• 5 ml vanilla extract
• 5 grams baking powder
• 2.5 grams cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Yield: 1 large loaf (8-10 slices)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
   • Grease a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan
   • Chop the apple into small, fine pieces
   • Slice the banana
   • Pit and halve the cherries if using fresh
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine oat flakes
   • Add chopped walnuts
   • Mix in baking powder, cinnamon, and salt
   • Stir to ensure even distribution
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients
   • In a separate bowl, mash the ripe banana
   • Whisk in the egg
   • Add milk and vanilla extract
   • Stir in sugar or sweetener until well combined
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
   • Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients
   • Gently fold until just combined
   • Do not overmix
   • Fold in chopped apple and cherries
5. Baking
   • Transfer batter to the prepared loaf pan
   • Smooth the top with a spatula
   • Sprinkle additional oats on top if desired
   • Bake for 45-50 minutes
   • Check doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean
6. Cooling
   • Remove from oven
   • Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes
   • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: 220-250
• Protein: 6-7g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fat: 10-12g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 10-12g

Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender.
3. Check for Moisture: The bread should be moist but not wet in the center.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool entirely to set the structure.
5. Storage Tip: Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats
• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk
• Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• Fruit Variations:
  • Use blueberries instead of cherries
  • Try dried cranberries for a different twist
• Sweetener Alternatives:
  • Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup
  • Use stevia for a lower-calorie option

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this bread vegan? A: Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based milk.

Q2: How long will this bread stay fresh? A: Stored at room temperature, it will last 3-4 days. Refrigerate for up to a week.

Q3: Can I freeze this bread? A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Q4: Is this bread good for meal prep? A: Perfect for meal prep! Slice and store individually for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

Q5: Can I add protein to this recipe? A: Try adding a scoop of protein powder or chia seeds to boost protein content.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
• Refrigeration: Will keep fresh for up to 1 week
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then in foil
• Thawing: Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving

Final Thoughts

This Banana Cherry Oatmeal Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients, simple baking, and the joy of a homemade breakfast. Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone who loves a delicious morning treat, this bread promises to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy Every Slice!