Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat

Name: Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups whole wheat flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

Discover the simplicity of baking with this Easy Everyday Whole Wheat Bread recipe. Perfect for sandwiches or toast, this bread is nutritious and delicious.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:50:27.513Z

This Easy Everyday Whole Wheat Bread is perfect for those who want to bake their own bread without the fuss. It’s hearty, healthy, and can be made with just a few simple ingredients.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious whole wheat goodness
Simple ingredients you probably already have
Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side

      

The Benefits of Whole Wheat Bread

Whole wheat bread is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It contains more fiber than white bread, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. The fiber in whole wheat can also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. By choosing whole wheat, you're making a nutritious choice for your meals.

In addition to fiber, whole wheat bread is rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients are essential for energy production and overall health. By incorporating whole wheat bread into your diet, you can enjoy a tasty option that also supports your well-being.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking bread at home can seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure your success. First, make sure your yeast is fresh and active; otherwise, your dough won't rise properly. A quick test is to mix the yeast with warm water and honey; if it bubbles, you're good to go!

Another key to great bread is proper kneading. Kneading develops the gluten in the dough, giving your bread structure and chewiness. Don’t rush this step—aim for about 10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you find the dough too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Everyday Whole Wheat Bread is extremely versatile. Enjoy it toasted for breakfast with a spread of your favorite nut butter and banana slices for a wholesome start to your day. For lunch, use it to create hearty sandwiches filled with lean meats, fresh veggies, or your favorite spreads.

You can also serve this bread as a side with soups and salads, enhancing your meals with its nutty flavor and chewy texture. For a delightful treat, consider making French toast with leftover slices—just dip them in a mixture of eggs and milk, then cook until golden brown. It's a delicious way to use your homemade bread!

Ingredients

For the Bread

3 cups whole wheat flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to measure your flour accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add salt and olive oil, then gradually stir in whole wheat flour until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Storing Your Bread

To keep your homemade whole wheat bread fresh, store it in a cool, dry place. A bread box or a paper bag works well to maintain its crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft. If you plan on consuming the bread over the week, consider slicing it and freezing portions to enjoy later.

When freezing, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, simply remove the slices you need and toast them directly from the freezer for an easy treat.

Experimenting with Flavors

Once you've mastered the basic whole wheat bread recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Consider mixing in seeds like flaxseed, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for added texture and nutrition. You can also incorporate herbs and spices for a unique twist, such as rosemary or garlic powder.

For a slightly sweeter bread, add raisins or dried cranberries to the dough. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful contrast to the nutty whole wheat. There are endless possibilities to explore, so don't hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, but the texture and nutrition will be different.

→ How do I know if the bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can this bread be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

→ What can I add to the bread for extra flavor?

Consider adding nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the dough before baking.