YIELDS 1 LOAF (12 SLICES)

Oatmeal adds nutrition and great texture to this easy batter bread. Cinnamon sugar is layered in the bread to provide a sweet surprise.

1 (0.25-ounce) package active dry yeast

½ teaspoon sugar

⅓ cup warm water

½ cup sugar, divided

2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided

¼ teaspoon salt

⅓ cup butter, softened

2 eggs

⅓ cup oatmeal, ground

2 to 2-½ cups all-purpose flour

1. In small bowl, combine yeast, ½ teaspoon sugar, and warm water and set aside. In large bowl, combine ¼ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, butter, and eggs and beat well. Add the yeast mixture and oatmeal along with 1 cup flour. Beat for 3 minutes. Then stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff batter.

2. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9” × 5” loaf pan with unsalted butter.

3. In small bowl, combine ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir down batter and place half in prepared pan. Sprinkle with half of cinnamon sugar mixture. Repeat layers. Cover and let rise until batter expands to top of pan, about 30 minutes.

4. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until loaf is set and golden brown. Turn out onto wire rack to cool completely.

Batter Breads

Batter breads are a great way to learn how to make bread. They don't require any kneading, but you must beat the batter for as long as the recipe states. You also don't have to shape them; just spoon the batter into prepared pans. Any bread that calls for about 2 cups of flour can also be made into 12 individual muffin breads.