If you’re searching for a delightful and wholesome bread recipe to enrich your culinary collection, look no further than this honey whole wheat bread recipe. It perfectly balances sweetness and texture, making it an ideal choice to impress both family and friends at any gathering.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it was passed down from my grandmother. Every Sunday, the smell of freshly baked bread would permeate through her cozy kitchen, wrapping us with warmth and a sense of belonging. Each slice was a golden piece of my childhood, shared during countless family meals and cherished moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This honey whole wheat bread is incredibly easy to make and yields consistently fantastic results, even for novice bakers. The recipe’s unique addition of honey offers a natural sweetness that complements the nutty flavor of whole wheat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with both sweet and savory dishes.
Ingredients Notes
To make this bread, you’ll need whole wheat flour, honey, yeast, and a few other simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. For optimal results, use high-quality local honey and fresh yeast. If you’re in a pinch, maple syrup can act as a substitute for honey.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water, 1 packet of yeast, and 1/4 cup of honey. Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2
Add 3 cups of whole wheat flour and 2 teaspoons of salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
Step 3
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and transfer it to a greased loaf pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Storage Options
This bread keeps well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it. You can then toast it directly from frozen as needed.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds to the dough. If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the water quantity as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is ideal for breakfast paired with butter and preserves, or as a base for savory sandwiches. It’s also perfect for holiday brunches or as a thoughtful homemade gift in a decorative loaf bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Whole wheat flour gives a denser, more flavorful result compared to the lighter texture from all-purpose flour.
How can I tell if the bread is fully baked? A simple way is to tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s done. Alternatively, you can use a bread thermometer; a fully baked loaf will typically register at 190°F (88°C) internally.
What is the best way to reheat frozen bread? For best results, reheat your frozen bread slices directly in a toaster. If you have a whole frozen loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the bread for about 10-15 minutes.
Honey Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3.5 cups whole wheat flour freshly milled if possible
- 1.5 cups warm water not hot, just warm
- 0.5 cup honey local honey preferred
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet instant yeast 2 and 1/4 teaspoons
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water and honey until dissolved. Add the yeast and allow it to bloom for about 5 minutes.
- Add olive oil, salt and 3 cups of whole wheat flour. Stir until a loose batter forms.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into a loaf, place in a greased loaf pan, and allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
