Honey Whole-Wheat Bread(2 Loaves)
Sweet, hearty honey whole-wheat bread with a dense crumb and rich flavor, perfect for wholesome sandwiches or toast, suitable for bread enthusiasts and home bakers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, honey, and active yeast.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes to let the yeast soften and activate.
- Add oil and whole wheat flour to the bowl and mix well.
- Beat the mixture vigorously for 100 strokes.
- Add 2 to 3 cups of white flour gradually, stirring to form a stiff dough.
- Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes, then place in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for one hour.
- Punch down the dough and knead to its original size.
- Cut the dough in half to form two pieces.
- Shape each piece into loaves and place in two large (9 1/2 x 5 1/2-inch) loaf pans.
- Let the loaves rise for 40 to 45 minutes until they reach the top of the pans or slightly above.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer crust, brush the loaves with melted butter immediately after baking. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the whole wheat flour. If you run low on white flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to keep the yeast alive and active.
Serving Suggestions
This honey whole-wheat bread is delicious on its own or served with butter and honey. It pairs beautifully with soups or stews, making it a great accompaniment for a cozy dinner. Consider serving it alongside the Ambrosia Fruit Cocktail Salad for a refreshing contrast or as the base for a hearty sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap individual slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Whole-Wheat Bread(2 Loaves) contains roughly 6279 calories, with 141g protein, 571g carbohydrates, and 399g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (283% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (211% of the Daily Value), and iron (200% of the Daily Value). 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 active yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active yeast in this recipe. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in warm water first. However, you may want to adjust the rising times slightly as instant yeast often works faster.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it turns a golden brown color and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) to ensure it’s fully baked.
Can I add seeds or nuts to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding seeds like sunflower or flaxseed, or chopped nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. Just fold them into the dough after kneading for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.
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).