Whole Wheat Bread(Makes 2 Loaves)
A hearty whole wheat bread with rich molasses flavor, perfect for wholesome sandwiches or toast, suited for bakers seeking a nutritious, homemade loaf.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water; stir well.
- Pour hot water over sugar and salt; stir until dissolved. Cool.
- Add softened yeast, shortening, molasses, and whole wheat flour, beating until smooth.
- Add remaining flour and work it in well with the hands.
- Turn onto floured pastry cloth and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl. Grease surface of dough. Cover and let rise until double in bulk (about 2 hours).
- Divide into 2 parts. Shape into loaves and place in greased loaf pans (about 8 x 4 x 3 inches).
- Cover and let rise about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup in place of some sugar. If you don't have whole wheat flour, you can substitute with spelt flour for a nuttier taste. Make sure your water temperature is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This whole wheat bread is perfect for sandwiches or as a side with soups and salads. Try it with a spread of butter or homemade jams for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with Ashleigh'S Sweet Toast, making for a delightful morning treat. For a nutritious lunch, serve it alongside the Spicy Applesauce Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a resealable bag; it can last up to three months. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Wheat Bread(Makes 2 Loaves) contains roughly 3666 calories, with 63g protein, 440g carbohydrates, and 186g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (145% of the Daily Value), protein (126% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (91% 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 dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in warm water first. This will slightly speed up the rising process.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or inadequate warmth. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer area, such as near a preheated oven or in a warm, draft-free spot. You can also let it rise longer if needed.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the shortening with a plant-based oil like coconut or olive oil, and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of molasses for sweetness. This will maintain the texture while ensuring the recipe is suitable for a vegan diet.
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).