Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Do you yearn for that satisfying crunch with every bite? Then look no further! This honey wheat bread recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. It's surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and makes your entire kitchen smell absolutely divine. Get ready to enjoy the best homemade bread you've ever tasted! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup honey, for brushing (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a successful loaf! If the yeast doesn't foam, it might be inactive, so start again with fresh yeast.
Mixing the dough:
- Stir in the olive oil and salt. Gradually add the whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Kneading the dough:
- 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. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water 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 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and second rise:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Baking:
- 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). If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
Cooling and serving:
- Brush the top of the loaf with ¼ cup honey (optional) while still warm. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Honey Wheat Bread:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements. This is especially important when baking bread.
- Don't over-knead the dough, or the bread will be tough.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts. A slightly warm oven (with the light on) works well.
- Use a bread thermometer to ensure the bread is fully baked.
Variations:
- Add ½ cup of chopped nuts or seeds to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, nuttier loaf.
- Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for a sweeter bread.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 2-4g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This easy recipe for honey wheat bread is a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal. Enjoy this homemade bread with your favorite soup, stew, or simply as a tasty snack. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a perfect way to elevate your homemade cooking skills. Enjoy your freshly baked loaf!