9 Grain Cereal Bread and Rolls: A Hearty Homemade Delight

The aroma of baking bread is a powerful time machine. For me, it always whisks me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a warm and bustling space filled with the comforting scent of yeast and warm dough. She had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into loaves of love, and this recipe, adapted to incorporate the goodness of 9-grain cereal, reminds me so much of her tireless passion for baking. The subtle nuttiness and satisfying chew of the grains adds a rustic depth that elevates these breads and rolls beyond the ordinary.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (includes rising time)
• Yields: 15 rolls
• Serves: 15
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon water (for glazing, optional)
• 1 egg
• 4 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1/4 cup instant oats or rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups flour from 9 grain cereal (finely ground)
• 1 1/2 cups white flour or bread flour
• 1 – 1 1/2 tablespoon vital wheat gluten (optional, but highly recommended, especially with the heavier 9-grain flour)
• 1/4 cup sugar (or less, to taste)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

Equipment Needed

• Bread machine (optional, but recommended for the initial mixing and kneading)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl (if not using a bread machine for kneading)
• Greased baking sheet or bread pan
• Plastic wrap or floured sack towel
• Wire cooling rack

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: Whether you’re using a bread machine or mixing by hand, the order of adding ingredients matters. If using a bread machine, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your model. Generally, wet ingredients go in first, followed by dry ingredients. In this case, add the 1 cup water, egg, and vegetable oil to the bread machine pan or mixing bowl.

2. Add Dry Ingredients: Next, add the instant oats, 9-grain cereal flour, white flour, vital wheat gluten (if using), sugar, and salt. Make a small well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the active dry yeast. This prevents the yeast from activating prematurely.

3. Knead the Dough: If using a bread machine, select the “dough” setting and let the machine do its work. This will typically take about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. If mixing by hand, combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough may be slightly sticky, but resist the urge to add too much flour.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean floured sack towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size. This usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. A warm oven (turned off!) or a sunny spot works well.

5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into the desired number of portions. For rolls, divide the dough into approximately 15 equal pieces. For bread, you can make two medium loaves or one large loaf. Shape the dough into rolls or loaves as desired.

6. Second Rise: Place the shaped dough on a greased baking sheet or in a greased bread pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a floured sack towel and let rise again in a warm, draft-free place for about 25 minutes for rolls, or 40 minutes for bread. This second rise is crucial for a light and airy texture.

7. Preheat the Oven: About 10-15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Bake: Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or the bread for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. To achieve even browning, especially if baking both rolls and bread at the same time, use a light-colored pan for the rolls and a dark-colored pan for the bread. This is because dark pans absorb more heat, which can lead to faster browning.

9. Optional Glaze: For a shiny, golden crust, whisk the remaining tablespoon of water with a pinch of salt and lightly brush over the rolls or bread before baking.

10. Cool: Remove the baked goods from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Grind Your Own Grain: For the freshest flavor, grind your own 9-grain cereal into flour using a high-powered blender or grain mill. Store any leftover flour in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Vital Wheat Gluten is Key: The 9-grain cereal flour can be quite heavy, so the vital wheat gluten is highly recommended to help the dough rise properly and create a lighter texture. If you omit it, the bread or rolls may be denser.
• Adjust the Sugar: The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
• Kneading is Essential: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness. Don’t skimp on the kneading time!
• Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on the bread while it’s baking. If it starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
• Doneness Test: To check if the bread is done, insert a wooden skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. You can also tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these 9-grain cereal rolls and bread warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads. They’re also delicious served alongside soups, salads, or stews.

Store leftover bread and rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice and toast the bread or rolls for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	82.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	1.9 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.3 g	1%
Cholesterol	12.4 mg	4%
Sodium	238.6 mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	14.1 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
Sugars	3.4 g	13%
Protein	2.2 g	4%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Lighter Bread: For a lighter loaf, reduce the amount of 9-grain cereal flour to 1 cup and increase the white flour to 2 cups. You can also substitute white flour for the oats.
• Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly (some refined sugars are processed with bone char).
• Sweet Rolls: Add a cinnamon swirl or other sweet filling to the dough before shaping it into rolls for a delicious treat.
• Herb Bread: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, into the dough for a savory twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a stand mixer instead of a bread machine or hand kneading?
A: Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment and mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Q: What if my dough doesn’t rise?
A: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. The water should be warm, but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Also, make sure the rising environment is warm and draft-free.

Q: Can I use honey instead of sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey for sugar. Use the same amount (1/4 cup) and reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 1-2 tablespoons.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from getting too dark?
A: Tent the bread or rolls with aluminum foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning.

Q: Can I freeze the dough after the first rise?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Punch it down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.

Final Thoughts

This 9-grain cereal bread and rolls recipe is a wonderful way to bring the comforting aroma and taste of homemade baking into your kitchen. The nutty flavor and satisfying texture of the grains add a unique twist to a classic staple. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that will fill your home with warmth and deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. And most importantly, enjoy the process! I’d love to hear how your baking turns out, so please share your feedback and any creative adaptations you try. Happy baking!