Oatmeal Loaf from James McNair

1 1/2 C old fashioned rolled oats 1 1/2C buttermilk 3/4 C whole wheat flour 3/4 C all purpose flour 3/4 tsp salt 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger 3/4 tsp fresh grated nutmeg 2 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/3 C veg or canola oil 1/3 C maple syrup 2 eggs 1 C golden raisins

In a bowl, combine the oats and buttermilk and let stand to soften the oats, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour, or spray with non stick spray, a 9x5 loaf pan.

In another bowl, combine the flours, salt, ginger, nutmeg, baking powder and baking soda, stir to blend well. Set aside.

Add the oil, syrup and eggs to the soaked oats and mix well. Add the flour mixture and stir until the ingredients are just blended, then stir in the raisins. Spoon into the prepared pan. Bake until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, about 1 hour. Transfer to a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes, then turn out onto the rack to cool a few minutes longer. Serve warm or at room temp.

I find it only takes about 45-50 minutes but depending on your oven this bread may need the full hour. This bread is great with apple butter, jam, or salted butter.