Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

If you have ever wanted to bake your own bread that is wholesome, delicious, and surprisingly simple to make, this Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe is an absolute game changer. It combines the hearty flavor of whole wheat with the softness of white flour, creating a beautifully textured loaf with a golden crust that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or just eating straight up. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a delight for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a reliable everyday bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe comes down to a short list of pantry staples, each playing a key role in the final loaf’s taste and texture. From flours that provide structure and flavor, to yeast that breathes life into the dough, every ingredient is essential yet simple.

• All-purpose white flour (300g or 2⅓ cups): Gives the bread a tender crumb and helps balance the density of the whole wheat.
• Whole wheat flour (200g or 1½ cups): Adds a rich, nutty complexity and wholesome nutrition to the loaf.
• Instant yeast (10g or 1 tablespoon): Makes the dough rise quickly while developing flavor without fuss.
• Fine sea salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor and controls yeast activity for perfect fermentation.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle richness that complements the grains.
• Warm water (about 310ml or 1⅓ cups): Hydrates the flours and activates the yeast for a lively, elastic dough.

How to Make Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing both the white and whole wheat flours, instant yeast, and sea salt in a large bowl or stand mixer. Getting these dry ingredients evenly distributed early on ensures the yeast will work its magic uniformly throughout the dough.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients and Knead

Next, pour in the olive oil and warm water. Use your mixer on a low speed or your hands to knead the dough for about 7 to 15 minutes, depending on your method. The dough should come together as a slightly tacky, smooth, and elastic ball that springs back when you press it. This kneading stage is vital to develop the gluten that gives bread its satisfying chew and keeps it from being dense.

Step 3: First Rise

Grease a large bowl lightly with oil, place the kneaded dough inside, and turn it to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it sit at room temperature until doubled in size. This slow rise adds depth of flavor and lightness. Depending on your kitchen’s warmth, this can take 60 to 90 minutes, but never rush it by heating too much as flavor and texture depend on a gentle ferment.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Once risen, transfer the dough gently to a lightly oiled surface. Flatten it into a rectangle about the width of your bread pan and fold it in thirds — bottom third up, then top third down, and finally fold in half again. Pinch the seams shut carefully and tuck in the ends to make a neat loaf shape ready for the pan.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough in a lightly oiled bread pan, cover it with the damp towel again, and let it rise until it domes about an inch over the edge of the pan. This second rise takes roughly 30 minutes and primes the loaf for an airy texture and beautiful crust.

Step 6: Preheat and Score

While waiting for the dough’s final rise, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Before baking, score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or kitchen scissors — a long cut or several short ones works well. Scoring controls where the bread expands during baking, giving you a lovely professional finish.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the bread for 40 minutes, then carefully remove it from the pan onto a wire rack to cool. A hollow tap on the loaf’s bottom signals a perfectly baked crust and crumb. Though tempting, resist slicing while still warm; letting the bread cool fully ensures the crumb sets properly and the flavor shines through.

How to Serve Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

Garnishes

This Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe shines on its own but is also superb with simple finishes like a slather of butter or drizzle of honey. For extra flair, lightly brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle coarse sea salt or seeds before baking to add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this bread with soups, hearty stews, or vibrant salads for a comforting meal. Its robust flavor complements creamy butternut squash soup beautifully, and it’s excellent alongside a fresh tomato and mozzarella salad for a lighter option.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf thick for rustic sandwiches piled high with fresh veggies and cheeses, or cube and toast it for crunchy croutons that elevate any salad or soup. You can even transform it into a delectable bread pudding by cubing leftover slices and soaking them in a decadent custard.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap your bread tightly in a clean tea towel or place it in a bread box to maintain freshness for 2 to 3 days. Avoid plastic wrap unless freezing, as it traps moisture and can make the crust soggy.

Freezing

To enjoy your Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe later, slice the loaf and stash it in an airtight freezer bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months and you can toast slices directly from the freezer for convenient fresh taste anytime.

Reheating

If the bread feels a bit stale after storage, revive it by warming in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This restores that freshly baked aroma and lightly crisps the crust, making it irresistible again.

FAQs

Can I substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour only?

Yes, you can use only all-purpose flour, but the bread will lose some of its nutty flavor and be lighter in texture. The whole wheat flour adds essential depth and nutrients.

Why is my bread dense after baking?

Common causes are under-kneading, insufficient rising time, or too much flour added during shaping. Ensuring a smooth, elastic dough and allowing proper rises will give you a lighter loaf.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

You can, but you’ll need to activate it first by dissolving in warm water and letting it bubble for 5 to 10 minutes before mixing it with other ingredients.

How do I know if my bread is fully baked?

A hollow sound when tapping the bottom of the loaf is a reliable indicator. The crust should be a deep golden brown and the loaf should feel light for its size.

Is olive oil necessary in this recipe?

Olive oil adds moisture and richness, but you can substitute any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. It helps keep the crumb soft and extends freshness.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a warm loaf out of the oven that you made from scratch, especially when it’s an Easy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe that’s so approachable and rewarding. Whether you’re new to baking or just love good bread, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Give it a try, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of homemade bread and the joy of sharing it with those you love.

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