Are you craving the wholesome goodness of homemade bread but short on time? This bread machine seed bread recipe is your answer! Forget kneading and fussy techniques; this recipe leverages the convenience of your bread machine to deliver a hearty, flavorful loaf packed with nutritious seeds. It's perfect for busy weeknights and makes a fantastic addition to any meal, from breakfast sandwiches to elegant soup pairings. This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy healthy, homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 cups bread flour
- ½ cup mixed seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, flax, chia – your choice!)
Instructions:
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Prepare your bread machine: Ensure your bread machine is clean and ready to use. Grease the pan lightly with cooking spray or oil – this prevents sticking and makes for easier removal.
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Combine wet ingredients: Add the warm water, sugar, yeast, and olive oil to your bread machine pan. Let the yeast activate for a few minutes; you should see it start to foam slightly. This is a crucial step for a successful loaf.
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Add dry ingredients: Add the salt, whole wheat flour, bread flour, and mixed seeds to the bread machine pan. Try to distribute them evenly.
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Select the setting: Choose the basic or whole wheat bread setting on your bread machine. The exact time will vary depending on your machine's model, usually between 3-4 hours.
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Let the machine do its work: Press start and let the machine do the rest! You can relax and enjoy the aroma as your delicious bread bakes.
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Remove and cool: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy and allows the crust to firm up.
Tips for the Best Bread Machine Seed Bread:
- Fresh yeast is key: Using fresh yeast ensures proper rising and a light, airy loaf. Check the expiration date on your yeast packet.
- Don't over-flour: Adding too much flour can result in a dry bread. Stick to the measurements in the recipe.
- Experiment with seeds: Feel free to experiment with different types of seeds to customize the flavor and nutritional profile of your bread. Sesame, poppy, or even hemp seeds would be delicious additions!
- Add-ins: Once you've mastered the basic recipe, try adding dried fruits, nuts, or herbs for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Hearty Grain Bread: Substitute part of the bread flour with other whole grains like rye or spelt for a nuttier, more complex flavor.
- Sweet Seed Bread: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients for a slightly sweeter loaf.
- Savory Seed Bread: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist perfect with soups and stews.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on seed type and loaf size)
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This easy bread machine seed bread recipe makes a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread without the fuss! It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals combined. This simple homemade cooking approach elevates even the simplest of meals.