Step-by-step instructions
Activate Yeast: Start by combining warm water with 1 tablespoon of honey in a small bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, remaining honey, and oil until well-blended.
Combine: Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently stir in the salt to incorporate.
Add Flour: Gradually add the whole wheat flour, one cup at a time. Mix with a wooden spoon to form a shaggy dough.
Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and pinch the seams to seal.
Second Rise: Transfer the shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it rises about an inch above the rim.
Preheat: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake: Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown on top.
Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Best ways to enjoy it
This whole wheat bread is incredibly versatile. Slice it thick for heartwarming toast topped with avocado and poached eggs, or create delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings. Pair it with homemade soups, hearty salads, or even serve it with a side of hummus at gatherings. The nutritional value and flavor allow it to stand tall on its own!
Storage and reheating tips
Proper storage is crucial to keep your homemade bread fresh. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop slices in the toaster or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm it in a low oven.
Helpful cooking tips
Monitor Water Temperature: Always ensure your water is around 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold may not activate it enough.
Flour Measurement: For precise baking, measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding shredded cheese, herbs, or diced veggies can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your bread.
Creative twists
This whole wheat bread recipe is just the starting point. Prepare a savory herb-infused loaf by incorporating dried oregano or basil. For a sweeter twist, try adding cinnamon and raisins. Gluten-free eaters can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat, though you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, expect about two hours. Most of the time is hands-off, allowing the dough to rise.
Can I substitute honey with something else?
Yes! Maple syrup or agave can effectively replace honey in this recipe, offering a similar sweetness.
What should I do if the bread doesn’t rise?
If your bread doesn’t rise, check that your yeast is active. If it hasn’t foamed in the warm water after 5-10 minutes, it may be expired. Make sure your dough is in a warm, draft-free place during the rising phase to support proper fermentation.
