Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen—there's nothing quite like it! Our "Crunchy Whole Grain Bread" recipe is not just a treat for your senses; it’s a wholesome addition to your meals that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and 45 minutes of your time, you can create a delicious loaf that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re slathering it with butter or using it for your favorite sandwiches, this bread is sure to become a staple in your home. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole grain flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water (around 110°F) with honey. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and activated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole grain flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the well of the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, with a slight resistance when stretched.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
- Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until it has noticeably increased in volume.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Optional: Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to create a decorative pattern.
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the internal structure to set.
Tips
- Measure Accurately: For the best results, make sure to measure your ingredients precisely. This will ensure the perfect texture and rise for your bread.
- Activate Your Yeast: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot (around 110°F). If it's too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing your bread from rising.
- Knead with Care: Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives your bread its chewy texture. Don’t rush this step; aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Warm Rising Environment: To help the dough rise, place it in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on the oven for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow your bread to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. This helps the internal structure set and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your bread by adding seeds, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the flour amount accordingly!
- Storage: Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to slice it before freezing for easy access!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
