Whole Wheat Bread
Golden whole wheat bread with a hearty, nutty flavor and a soft, chewy crumb, ideal for sandwiches or toast. Its wholesome taste and dense texture make it perfect for those seeking a nutritious, homemade loaf with minimal ingredients, suitable for everyday family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the warm water and active dry yeast until the yeast is dissolved.
- Add brown sugar, salt, shortening, and additional warm water to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add the wheat flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a loaf, place in a well-greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan.
- Let the dough rise in the pan for another hour.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. Make sure to knead the dough well to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure. If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider adding a bit more brown sugar. This whole wheat bread pairs beautifully with Custard Sauce for a delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
Whole wheat bread is versatile and can be served with a variety of spreads, such as butter or jam. For a heartier meal, use it for sandwiches filled with your favorite ingredients. It also pairs wonderfully with soups and salads, making it a great addition to any meal. You might also enjoy it alongside Homemade Buns for a delightful bread basket.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover whole wheat bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice the bread and toast it or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Wheat Bread contains roughly 1783 calories, with 14g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 183g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 all-purpose flour instead of wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for wheat flour, but the texture and flavor will differ. All-purpose flour will yield a lighter bread, while whole wheat flour adds nuttiness and fiber. If substituting, consider using a mix for the best results.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is warm enough (around 110°F). If your kitchen is too cold, try placing the dough in a warmer spot or using an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer; it should be around 190°F to 200°F for fully cooked bread.
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).