Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Do you want a healthier twist on a classic? Then look no further! This honey whole wheat bread recipe is the perfect blend of deliciousness and ease. It’s a fantastic recipe for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and satisfying homemade cooking project. Get ready to enjoy a truly delightful loaf, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply savoring on its own. This recipe is packed with flavor and delivers a wholesome, healthy meal option, making it one of the best recipes for a quick dinner or a simple, satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for softer texture)
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This is crucial for a successful rise! If your yeast doesn't foam, it may be inactive, and you'll need to start again with fresh yeast.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the whole wheat flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If using, add the all-purpose flour at the end to adjust the consistency.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Shape the Loaf: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, until almost doubled again.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). A wooden skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
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Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Honey Whole Wheat Bread:
- Use fresh yeast: This ensures your bread rises properly.
- Don't over-knead: Over-kneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the crumb to set and prevents a gummy texture.
Variations:
- Add seeds and nuts: Incorporate sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, aromatic bread.
- Use different honey: Experiment with different types of honey, such as clover honey or wildflower honey, to change the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This honey whole wheat bread is a fantastic addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a delicious and healthy option that's easy to make, even for beginners. Enjoy!