Discover the ultimate homemade loaf with this *Hearty Wheat Bread (Not Bread Machine)* recipe, perfect for those who love traditional baking techniques. This rustic wheat bread combines the nutty richness of whole wheat flour with the soft texture of all-purpose flour, creating a balanced flavor and satisfying chew. Sweetened gently with honey and enriched with olive oil, this bread is both wholesome and delicious. With step-by-step guidance—like kneading by hand and allowing the dough to rise to fluffy perfection—this recipe guarantees a rewarding baking experience without a bread machine. Ideal for sandwich lovers or those seeking a warm slice slathered with butter, this versatile loaf is a must-try for home bakers craving a from-scratch masterpiece.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water, stir gently, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Add the olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of whole wheat flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until combined.
Gradually add the remaining whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, a little at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be smooth and elastic but not sticky.
Lightly oil a large bowl and place the kneaded dough inside. Turn the dough to coat it lightly with oil, then cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to deflate it. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes.
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack completely before slicing.
Calories |
2278 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.1 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4745 mg | 206% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 438.0 g | 159% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.4 g | 159% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.4 g | ||
| Protein | 67.7 g | 135% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 139 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 23.1 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 1637 mg | 35% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.