Ingredients

• 400g whole wheat flour
• 300ml lukewarm water
• 5g instant dry yeast (1 tsp)
• 8g salt (1 1/2 tsp)
• 25g powdered milk
• 30g olive oil (2 Tbsp)
• 40g honey (or maple syrup, for a vegan option)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Measure the ingredients carefully. Make sure the water is lukewarm (around 105-110°F/40-43°C) to help activate the yeast without killing it.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

1. Combine yeast and water: In a large mixing bowl, add the lukewarm water and sprinkle the instant dry yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to dissolve and become slightly foamy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready for use.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

1. Add the honey and oil: Stir the honey and olive oil into the yeast mixture until fully combined.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, powdered milk, and salt.
3. Add dry ingredients to wet: Gradually add the flour mixture into the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
4. Knead the dough: Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky; add a small amount of flour if necessary, but avoid over-flouring.

Step 4: First Rise

1. Place dough in a bowl: Lightly oil a large mixing bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let the dough rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

1. Punch down the dough: Gently deflate the dough by pressing down on it with your fist.
2. Shape into a loaf: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding it into a rectangle and rolling it into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal.
3. Place in a loaf pan: Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan and place the shaped dough inside, seam-side down. Cover loosely with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has doubled again and is slightly domed over the edge of the pan.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the bread: Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
3. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts (approximate per slice, for a loaf cut into 12 slices)

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 165mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

FAQ

1. Can I use regular white flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute with all-purpose or bread flour, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. For a fluffier bread, consider using half whole wheat and half bread flour.

2. What can I use instead of powdered milk?
If you don’t have powdered milk, you can omit it, though it does add a rich flavor and softness to the bread. Alternatively, substitute it with the same amount of liquid milk, reducing the water slightly.

3. Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes! Replace the honey with maple syrup and omit the powdered milk, or use a non-dairy powdered milk substitute if you prefer.

4. How do I know when the dough is properly kneaded?
The dough should be smooth and elastic. You can test it by pressing a finger into the dough; it should bounce back slightly, indicating enough gluten has developed.

5. What if my dough isn’t rising?
Check that your yeast is still fresh and that the environment is warm enough for proofing. You can place the dough in a slightly warm (but turned-off) oven to help it rise.

Tips for Making the Best Whole Wheat Honey Bread

1. Use fresh ingredients: Yeast is sensitive to freshness, so check your yeast packet for the expiration date.
2. Choose a warm spot for rising: Yeast thrives in warmth, so find a warm area free from drafts to allow the dough to rise properly.
3. Be gentle during shaping: Handle the dough gently when shaping to preserve the air bubbles created during rising, which helps keep the bread light and fluffy.
4. Slash the top: For a rustic look, make a shallow slash on the top of the loaf before baking, allowing for even expansion.
5. Add toppings: For added flavor and texture, sprinkle oats, sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds on top before baking.
6. Let the bread cool: Resist slicing the bread until it’s completely cooled to avoid a gummy texture. Cooling helps the bread fully set and makes slicing easier.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Wrap the bread in a clean kitchen towel or keep it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Refrigerator: Store the bread in a sealed bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep in mind that refrigeration can make bread slightly drier, so toasting may help refresh it.

Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw a slice at room temperature or pop it straight into the toaster.

Conclusion

Whole Wheat Honey Bread is a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe, yielding a flavorful, slightly sweet loaf that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. This bread strikes a balance between wholesome nutrition and soft texture, thanks to whole wheat flour, olive oil, and a hint of honey. With a few key ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have fresh, homemade bread that’s far more nutritious than store-bought varieties. Whether you serve it toasted with butter, as a sandwich, or as a breakfast option, this whole wheat bread will likely become a household favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of creating your very own homemade loaf!