Looking for a gluten-free bread that’s hearty, nourishing, and simple to make? This homemade chia and oat loaf is a dream come true! Packed with fiber-rich oats, omega-3-loaded chia seeds, and wholesome yogurt, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or pairing with your favorite spreads. No yeast, no rising time — just wholesome goodness in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
Whether you’re avoiding gluten or just craving a clean, homemade option, this bread delivers on both taste and texture. It’s made with just a handful of real, nourishing ingredients — no gums, no starches, and no fuss. The combination of chia and oats creates a beautifully dense, sliceable loaf with a satisfying nutty flavor. Plus, it’s completely egg-free and can easily be made dairy-free!
This recipe yields one small loaf — ideal for toasting and enjoying over several days. Try it with avocado, nut butter, or a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ground Oats: Use gluten-free oats if needed. Once ground, they create a soft flour that gives the bread its structure and mild flavor.
Chia Seeds (Hydrated): These little seeds act as a natural binder, replacing the need for eggs and keeping the bread moist.
Baking Soda: Just a teaspoon helps give the bread a gentle lift.
Salt: A little goes a long way to enhance flavor.
Yogurt (Plain or Plant-Based): Adds moisture and helps activate the baking soda for lightness.
Olive Oil: Provides richness and helps with texture. You can substitute with melted coconut oil if preferred.
Lemon Juice: Balances the flavor and boosts the rise when combined with baking soda.
How to Make Chia and Oat Gluten-Free Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Hydrate the Chia Seeds
If you haven’t already, soak ¼ cup of chia seeds in ½ cup of water for at least an hour. This will create a gel-like texture that binds the bread.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of ground oats, hydrated chia gel, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ cup of yogurt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the juice of half a lemon.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother loaf, blend the mixture briefly. If you prefer a more rustic texture with visible oat flakes and chia seeds, you can skip this step.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Let the bread cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing. This helps it firm up and hold its shape.
Why It Works
This bread is naturally dense and satisfying without being heavy. The chia seeds lock in moisture, while the oats provide a hearty crumb. The tangy yogurt and lemon juice bring just the right brightness to balance the earthiness of the oats. It’s a perfect base recipe that you can customize with herbs, seeds, or spices to make it your own.
Tips & Tools
- Loaf Pan: A small 8-inch or mini loaf pan works best for this recipe.
- Parchment Paper: Makes cleanup and slicing much easier.
- Blender or Food Processor: Optional, but useful if you want a fine, smooth texture.
- Custom Flavors: Try adding rosemary, garlic powder, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a savory twist.
Final Thoughts
This gluten-free chia and oat bread is a pantry-friendly staple you’ll come back to again and again. It’s easy, versatile, and made entirely from whole-food ingredients. Perfect for gluten-free diets, plant-based eaters, or anyone who wants a nourishing alternative to store-bought bread.
Warm it up, add your favorite topping, and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!