This Whole Wheat Bread recipe combines the goodness of whole wheat flour with the lightness of bread flour for a soft and hearty loaf. Perfect for sandwiches or toasted with butter, this homemade bread is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Using fresh yeast, you can enjoy a fluffy, flavorful bread that is also healthier thanks to the inclusion of whole wheat flour.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Water: 1 cup (230 ml)
- Fresh yeast: ¾ tsp. (3 g) or dry yeast: ½ tsp. (2 g)
- Sugar (optional): 1 tsp. (4 g)
- Bread flour: 1 ½ cups (220 g)
- Whole wheat flour: ¾ cup (100 g)
- Salt: 1 tsp. (6 g)
Directions
- Activate the yeast: In a bowl, combine the water and sugar (if using). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for an additional 30-40 minutes.
- Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with butter or jam for a classic breakfast.
- Toast it and top with mashed avocado and a poached egg for a healthy brunch.
- Use it for making sandwiches or paninis with your favorite fillings.
- Pair it with soups and stews for a hearty meal.
- Slice it thin and serve as an accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the yeast is fresh to get the best rise.
- If you don’t have fresh yeast, dry yeast works just as well – just use half the amount.
- Don’t skip the resting time! It allows the dough to rise properly for a soft, fluffy bread.
- You can experiment with adding herbs or seeds for extra flavor.
- For a slightly sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 1-2 tablespoons.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in fiber: Whole wheat flour provides more fiber than white flour, which is beneficial for digestion.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Whole wheat contains B vitamins, magnesium, and iron.
- Supports heart health: The fiber in whole wheat flour can help lower cholesterol levels.
- Energy-boosting: The complex carbohydrates in this bread provide sustained energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (contains gluten from wheat flour)
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices per loaf)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Room temperature: Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed bag or bread box for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Toast slices directly from the freezer.
- Refrigeration: Bread can be refrigerated, but it may dry out more quickly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Just a few basic pantry items are needed to make this delicious homemade bread.
- Whole wheat goodness: It’s a healthier option than store-bought white bread, with added fiber and nutrients.
- Versatile: Perfect for any meal, from sandwiches to sides or breakfast toast.
- Fresh and warm: There’s nothing like the smell and taste of homemade bread straight from the oven.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding herbs, seeds, or other flours.
Conclusion
This Whole Wheat Bread recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought bread, providing the benefits of whole grains and fiber in a soft, fluffy loaf. It’s simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients, and the result is a deliciously fresh bread perfect for any occasion. Whether used for sandwiches or served with a meal, this bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of homemade bread!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this bread without the whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all the flour with bread flour if you prefer a lighter texture. - Can I add seeds or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Add sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor. - How can I make the bread rise faster?
You can place the dough in a warm area, like near a stove or in an oven with the light on, to speed up the rising process. - How can I ensure my bread stays soft?
Make sure not to overbake the bread, and store it in a sealed bag to retain moisture. - Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can follow the same process in a bread machine, adding the ingredients in the order recommended by your machine’s manual.