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Honey Wheat Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 128 reviews

This Honey Wheat Bread recipe is a wholesome and delicious homemade bread made with whole wheat flour, honey, and active dry yeast. It features a slightly sweet flavor with options to add nuts, seeds, spices, or herbs for extra taste. The bread is soft, elastic, and golden brown with a tender crumb, perfect for sandwiches or toast.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole wheat flour
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds, or flaxseeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom (optional, for spiced version)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for herb version)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the water to about 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the honey, vegetable oil or melted butter, and salt. Stir in the foamy yeast mixture until all wet ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add the whole wheat flour while stirring or using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky, developing gluten for good bread structure. Add optional nuts, seeds, spices, or herbs at this stage if using.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size, to develop flavor and lightness.
  5. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough gently to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased bread pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 45 minutes until the dough fills the pan beautifully.
  6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool before slicing to preserve moisture and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure water temperature is around 110°F (43°C) to properly activate yeast without killing it.
  • Kneading is essential for gluten development to get the right texture.
  • You can customize the bread by adding nuts, seeds, spices, or herbs to suit your taste.
  • Letting the bread cool completely before slicing helps maintain moisture.
  • Store bread in a sealed container or bag to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Honey Wheat Bread, Whole Wheat Bread, Homemade Bread, Healthy Bread, Soft Bread, Yeast Bread

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/honey-wheat-bread-recipe/