Whole Wheat Bread

Homemade bread has a comforting aroma and texture that store-bought bread simply cannot match. The process of mixing, kneading, resting, and baking is both therapeutic and rewarding. This Whole Wheat Bread Recipe brings out the natural earthiness and nuttiness of whole grains in a way that is wholesome, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Unlike commercial bread filled with additives and preservatives, this homemade loaf contains simple, real ingredients.

Whole wheat bread is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a more nutritious alternative to white bread. Whole wheat flour retains the bran and germ of the wheat kernel, offering robust flavor and health benefits like fiber, vitamins, minerals, and better digestion. Fresh from the oven, this bread is soft yet sturdy, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter and honey.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes me love this recipe the most is how beautifully simple yet rewarding it is. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a loaf that tastes bakery-quality and feels nourishing. The texture of this bread is soft enough to enjoy fresh and hearty enough to hold fillings like avocado, peanut butter, deli meats, or jam.

I also appreciate how customizable the dough is—sometimes I add nuts, seeds, rolled oats, or even herbs for extra nutrition and flavor. The subtle sweetness from honey or sugar balances the richness of the wheat perfectly, making each slice delicious whether savory or sweetened.

Why It's a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because:

• It’s healthier than most store-bought breads.
• The flavor is richer and more natural.
• It contains no preservatives or artificial additives.
• It costs far less than artisan bread.
• It is incredibly satisfying to make from scratch.

If you’ve never made homemade bread before, this recipe is an excellent introduction. If you’re already familiar with bread-making, you'll appreciate how well this dough behaves and bakes.

Recipe Details

• Course: Breakfast / Bread / Baking
• Cuisine: American / European
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Kneading + Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 12–14 slices (1 loaf)
• Calories: Approximately 110–140 per slice (depending on thickness)

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tbsp honey or sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• Optional: 1–2 tbsp milk powder for softness
• Optional toppings: oats, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds

Cooking Directions Overview

1. Activate the yeast.
2. Mix wet and dry ingredients.
3. Knead until smooth.
4. Let dough rise.
5. Shape into loaf and rise again.
6. Bake until golden brown.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a medium bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast.
• Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Form the Dough

• Add olive oil to the yeast mixture.
• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
• Gradually pour the liquid mixture into the flour while stirring or mixing.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

• Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
• The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Adjust water or flour if needed.

Step 4: First Rise (Proofing)

• Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.
• Cover with a damp towel and let rest in a warm place for 60–75 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

• Punch down dough to release excess air.
• Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
• Cover and let rise another 25–35 minutes until slightly above the pan rim.

Step 6: Bake

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Bake for 30–35 minutes or until top is golden and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

• Allow bread to cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature with:

• Butter and jam
• Peanut butter
• Soup or salad
• Sandwich fillings
• Honey, cream cheese, or avocado

Toasting enhances its nutty flavor beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh active yeast for best rise.
• Warm—not hot—water ensures yeast activation.
• To soften texture further, replace ¼ cup water with warm milk.
• Avoid slicing while hot; bread needs cooling to set properly.

Variations

• Seeded Whole Wheat Bread: Add chia, flax, pumpkin, or sesame seeds.
• Honey Oat Loaf: Sprinkle oats on top and fold oats into the dough.
• Garlic-Herb Bread: Add 1 teaspoon dried herbs and garlic powder.
• 50/50 Blend: Use half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in airtight bag or container for 3–4 days.
• Refrigerator: Up to 1 week, though bread may dry slightly.
• Freezer: Freeze sliced loaf wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
• Toast slices directly from frozen for convenience.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pan (9x5 inch recommended)
• Oven
• Dough scraper (optional)

Conclusion

This Whole Wheat Bread Recipe is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying to bake and enjoy. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it brings warmth and authenticity to any meal. Whether you're a beginner baker or experienced enthusiast, this recipe creates a soft, flavorful, wholesome loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own