Are you dreaming of warm, crusty bread with a subtle honey sweetness, but short on time? Then this Honey Wheat Bread recipe, made effortlessly in your bread machine, is the perfect solution! Forget about lengthy kneading and proofing; this recipe delivers delicious homemade bread with minimal effort. It's a fantastic addition to any meal, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 2 ½ - 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Bread Machine:
Grease your bread machine pan lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. This prevents the bread from sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Adding Ingredients:
Add the warm water, honey, and olive oil to the bread pan. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid, making sure it doesn't directly touch the oil. Add the salt. Then, add the whole wheat flour and about 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Step 3: The Bread Machine Does the Work:
Select the "dough" or "basic" cycle on your bread machine. If your machine allows, choose a slightly longer kneading time for a better texture. This process usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Adding Remaining Flour:
After the initial kneading cycle is complete, check the dough’s consistency. If it’s too sticky, add the remaining all-purpose flour, one tablespoon at a time, until a slightly tacky dough forms. Don't add too much flour, or the bread will be dry.
Step 5: The Final Rise and Bake:
Once the dough is properly formed, select the “bake” cycle. Baking times vary depending on your bread machine, so check your machine's manual for the recommended time. It usually takes about 50-60 minutes.
Step 6: Cooling and Enjoying:
After the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and allows the crust to crisp up nicely. Once cool, slice and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Honey Wheat Bread:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is fresh. If it’s old, it might not activate properly, leading to a poor rise.
- Flour Consistency: The amount of all-purpose flour you need may vary slightly based on the humidity and your specific type of flour. Always add flour gradually to achieve the right consistency.
- Cooling is Key: Allowing the bread to cool completely is crucial for developing its texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative! Incorporate nuts, seeds, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips into the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, comforting spice note to the bread.
- Different Flours: Experiment with different types of flour, such as rye or spelt flour, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)
This easy honey wheat bread recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend baking. It's a delicious and healthy addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, offering a fantastic taste and satisfying texture. Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen!