Oatmeal Cherry Braid

Oatmeal Cherry Braid Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Oatmeal Cherry Braid is a delicious and sweet pastry that combines the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with the tartness of cherry pie filling. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day.

History

The Oatmeal Cherry Braid recipe has been passed down through generations in many families. It is a popular choice for special occasions and holidays, as it is both visually appealing and delicious. The combination of oats and cherries creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to please any palate.

Ingredients

0.5 cup oatmeal
1 cup hot water
0.5 tsp salt
1.5 tbsp butter
1 pack yeast
0.25 cup water
1.5 tsp sugar
0.33 cup brown sugar
2.5 cup flour
0.5 cup homemade cherry pie filling
1 tsp fresh lemon peel
0.5 cup confectioners' sugar
2 tsp milk
0.25 tsp vanilla

How to prepare

Stir oatmeal into hot water.
Add salt and butter; let it cool to lukewarm.
Dissolve yeast in warm water, then stir in 1.5 tsp of sugar until dissolved.
When the yeast mixture starts to bubble, add it to the oatmeal mixture.
Stir in brown sugar and enough flour to make a stiff dough.
Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and satiny.
Cover the dough and let it rise until it doubles in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it in half.
Roll one portion of the dough into a rectangle.
Place the rectangle on a lightly greased baking sheet.
Spread cherry pie filling (using only 0.5 of the entire recipe for both braids) down the center of the dough.
Sprinkle 0.5 tsp of lemon peel over the filling.
Cut 1-inch strips on each side of the filling, leaving a 0.5-inch space around the filling.
Starting with the top right strip, overlap the dough over the filling, working from right to left, and lightly pinch to seal.
Let the dough rise until it almost doubles in size.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
While the braid is still warm, frost it with a glaze made of confectioner's sugar, milk, and vanilla.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough.

Variations

Try using different fruit fillings such as apple or blueberry for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rise until it doubles in size for a light and fluffy braid.

- Use homemade pie filling for the best flavor, but store-bought can also be used in a pinch.

- Be sure to seal the edges of the braid well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

- For a golden brown finish, brush the braid with an egg wash before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Oatmeal Cherry Braid warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough until smooth and satiny is key to a light and fluffy braid.

- Rolling the dough into a rectangle ensures even distribution of the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Margarine can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Instant yeast can be used instead of active dry yeast for a quicker rise.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Simply let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Oatmeal Cherry Braid on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Oatmeal Cherry Braid with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover braid in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 4g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 1mg per serving

Calcium: 20mg per serving

Alergens

Contains wheat and dairy

Summary

This Oatmeal Cherry Braid is a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

Summary

Oatmeal Cherry Braid is a delightful pastry that combines the heartiness of oatmeal with the sweetness of cherry pie filling. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little cottage by the lake. Margaret was known for her delicious baking, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

On this particular day, Margaret greeted me with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have something special for you today, my dear," she said as she led me into her sunny kitchen. There, on the counter, was a beautiful braided loaf filled with plump cherries and oats.

I couldn't believe my eyes. The loaf was golden brown and perfectly braided, with a sweet aroma wafting through the air. "What is this?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight of it.

"It's my Oatmeal Cherry Braid recipe," Margaret replied with a grin. "I learned how to make it from my grandmother many years ago, and it has been a family favorite ever since."

Margaret proceeded to show me how to make the braid, patiently guiding me through each step. We mixed the dough, rolled it out into a rectangle, and spread a generous layer of cherry filling on top. Then, we carefully folded the dough over the filling and braided it into a beautiful loaf.

As the braid baked in the oven, Margaret and I sat at the kitchen table, sipping tea and reminiscing about our childhoods. She told me stories about her grandmother, who was a master baker and passed down her recipes through the generations. I listened intently, absorbing every detail and feeling a deep connection to the tradition of baking.

When the braid was finally ready, we eagerly sliced into it and savored each bite. The combination of the sweet cherries and hearty oats was simply divine, and I knew I had to learn how to make this recipe myself.

Over the years, I practiced making the Oatmeal Cherry Braid whenever I had the chance. I would bake it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday mornings. Each time I made the braid, I felt a sense of pride and joy, knowing that I was carrying on a cherished tradition.

As I perfected the recipe, I began to add my own twist to it, experimenting with different fillings and spices. Sometimes I would use fresh berries instead of cherries, or sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness. No matter how I varied the recipe, the Oatmeal Cherry Braid always turned out delicious, a testament to the enduring power of homemade baking.

One day, as I was baking a batch of braids for a bake sale at the local church, a young woman approached me and asked for the recipe. She explained that she had never baked bread before and was eager to learn how to make the Oatmeal Cherry Braid.

I smiled at her enthusiasm and invited her into my kitchen. Together, we mixed the dough, rolled it out, and braided it into a beautiful loaf. As the braid baked in the oven, I shared stories with her about Margaret and my own journey of learning how to make this special recipe.

When the braid was finally ready, we sliced into it and enjoyed a warm, comforting slice together. The young woman's eyes lit up with delight, and she thanked me for teaching her how to bake bread for the first time.

As she left my kitchen, clutching the recipe card I had written out for her, I felt a sense of fulfillment and joy. I realized that the tradition of baking was not just about following a set of instructions, but about sharing a piece of yourself with others and passing down a legacy of love and warmth.

And so, as I continue to bake my Oatmeal Cherry Braid for family and friends, I know that I am not just making bread. I am creating memories, forging connections, and weaving a tapestry of love that will endure for generations to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.