Easy Whole Wheat Bread
A wholesome, hearty whole wheat bread with a slightly nutty flavor, perfect for healthy sandwiches or toast, suitable for bread lovers seeking a nutritious option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the first four ingredients (whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, dry yeast) in a large bowl and set aside.
- Heat the milk and cooking oil until lukewarm.
- Cool the mixture to lukewarm and beat in the egg.
- Add the flour mixture; beat for 30 seconds at low speed, then for 3 minutes at medium speed.
- Gradually add 1 cup of whole wheat flour and 3 1/2 cups of white flour to form a soft dough.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer crust, consider covering the dough with a damp cloth during the rising process. If you don't have whole wheat flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour but note that the flavor and texture will change slightly. Additionally, to enhance the bread's flavor, try adding a tablespoon of honey or molasses to the wet ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Whole Wheat Bread is delicious served warm with butter or as a base for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Chive Potatoes for a comforting meal. For breakfast, toast slices and top with jam or avocado. Consider serving it alongside soups or salads for a wholesome lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Whole Wheat Bread contains roughly 1253 calories, with 27g protein, 227g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry yeast. Use the same quantity but there's no need to activate it in warm liquid beforehand. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients for a quicker process.
What should I do if my bread doesn't rise?
If your bread doesn't rise, it may be due to expired yeast or the liquid being too hot or cold. Ensure the milk is lukewarm, ideally around 110°F. If the yeast doesn't foam after mixing it with warm liquid and sugar, it might not be active, so consider trying a new packet.
Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding seeds like sunflower or flaxseed, or nuts such as walnuts or pecans, can enhance both flavor and texture. Just fold them into the dough after the initial mixing, ensuring they're evenly distributed for a delightful crunch.
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).