Are you tired of store-bought bread that's lacking flavor and texture? Craving that warm, freshly baked aroma in your kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This honey wheat sandwich bread recipe is your ticket to homemade deliciousness. It's surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a soft, subtly sweet loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. Get ready to elevate your lunchtime game with this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Mixing the Dough:
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Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
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Gradually add the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise:
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Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Yeast Activation: Make sure your water is the correct temperature for yeast activation. Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a chewier, more textured loaf. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little messy!
- Rising Time: Rising times can vary depending on the temperature of your environment. If it's a cooler day, your dough might need a little longer to rise.
- Cooling: Allowing the bread to cool completely prevents it from becoming soggy.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding seeds (sunflower, flax, pumpkin), dried cranberries, or chopped nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, comforting spice to your bread.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey to your liking.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 3-5g Carbohydrates: 25-35g Protein: 5-7g
This information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This honey wheat sandwich bread is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect quick dinner idea and a great example of delicious dishes made with homemade cooking. Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma and the satisfaction of creating something truly special in your own kitchen. This recipe consistently delivers the best recipes for any occasion.