Guinness Brown Bread

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine wet ingredients
   In a separate medium bowl, mix the melted butter, molasses, and honey. Slowly pour in the Guinness, stirring constantly to prevent it from foaming too much. Add the buttermilk and stir until well combined.
4. Form the dough
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until just combined - the dough will be sticky and wet. Do not overmix.
5. Prepare for baking
   Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a wet spatula. Sprinkle additional oats over the top of the loaf and gently press them into the surface.
6. Bake the bread
   Bake for 30 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve
   Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. For the best flavor and texture, let the bread rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.