Best "Machine" Bread
This hearty machine bread combines cracked wheat, honey, and a soft crumb for a wholesome loaf perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, appealing to bread lovers seeking flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cracked wheat and boiling water until combined.
- Use a plastic spoon to stir the mixture.
- Add butter, oil, and honey to the mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool to warm temperature.
- Add remaining ingredients: salt, bread flour, and yeast.
- Use the bread machine for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until the bread is baked and ready.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider substituting half of the white bread flour with whole wheat flour. If you don't have cracked wheat, bulgur can be a good alternative. Ensure that the boiling water is poured over the cracked wheat to soften it properly and enhance the overall texture. Using a bread machine simplifies the process, but you can also knead the dough by hand if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this machine bread fresh out of the bread maker with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with soups and stews, making it a great accompaniment to dishes like Chili Con Casa. For a delightful breakfast option, serve it with jam or use it to make toast topped with avocado or smoked salmon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop slices in a toaster or warm the whole loaf in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best "Machine" Bread contains roughly 1273 calories, with 34g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value) and protein (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1522mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the white bread flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser loaf. Start with a 50-50 mix and see how you like the texture. Adjust water slightly if needed, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
You can check the bread's doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Additionally, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F when measured with a kitchen thermometer. If the crust is too dark, you can cover the top with aluminum foil during the last part of baking.
Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or nuts such as walnuts or pecans, can enhance the flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the total weight of added ingredients, as too much can affect the rise. Add them during the mixing stage for even distribution.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).