Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Homemade whole wheat bread is a much more healthier and tastier alternative for the store bought wheat bread available all over the world.
Looking for a delicious and healthy whole wheat bread recipe? You've come to the right place! This recipe is easy to follow and yields a soft and fluffy loaf that is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite soups and salads. The best part is, you can make it at home with simple ingredients and a few easy steps. Let's dive into the details of this wholesome and satisfying recipe.
Whole wheat bread recipe with step by step photos. Homemade whole wheat bread is a much more healthier and tastier alternative for the store bought wheat bread available all over the world. These soft and delicious loaf of bread has lot of fibre and is made without using any preservatives. Thus, it’s also safer and lighter for your digestive system. Due to it’s chewy texture, It is perfect for sandwiches of any type! So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try baking your loaf of bread right away!
What Is Whole Wheat Bread Recipe?
The whole wheat bread recipe is a delightful combination of whole wheat flour, salt, yeast, sugar, yogurt, ghee, and olive oil. The process of making this recipe involves kneading the dough until it is soft and smooth, and allowing it to rise before baking to perfection. The end result is a delicious and healthy loaf of whole wheat bread that can be enjoyed with jam or peanut butter.
Why You'll Love Whole Wheat Bread Recipe?
- Soft and Smooth Texture: This whole wheat bread recipe yields a soft and smooth texture that is perfect for sandwiches or toast.
- Health Benefits: Whole wheat flour used in this recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthier option compared to white bread.
- Digestive Health: The inclusion of yogurt in the recipe adds a probiotic element, which is beneficial for gut health.
- Low in Added Sugar: With just a tablespoon of sugar used in the recipe, this whole wheat bread is a low-sugar option compared to store-bought bread.
- Rich in Nutrients: Whole wheat flour is a good source of nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, providing added nutritional value to the bread.
- Versatile and Delicious: This whole wheat bread pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings, making it a versatile and delicious option for any meal.
Ingredients for Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides the base for the bread and adds a hearty, nutty flavor.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread and helps to control the fermentation process.
- Dry Active Yeast/Instant Yeast: Acts as a leavening agent, allowing the bread to rise and create a light, airy texture.
- Sugar: Helps to activate the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the bread.
- Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the bread, resulting in a soft and tender crumb.
- Ghee: Contributes to the richness and flavor of the bread, giving it a slightly buttery taste.
How To Make Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
- To make whole wheat bread, start by mixing the whole wheat flour, salt, and yeast in a wide bowl.
- Then add in the sugar, yogurt, ghee, and oil. Slowly add water and knead until you get a soft and smooth dough. Let the dough rise for 2 hours in a warm place.
- After the dough has doubled in size, shape it into a loaf and let it rise again in a prepared pan. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees C while the dough rises.
- Before baking, make a cross on the dough, brush the top with milk, and bake for 30-35 mins. Once baked, let the bread cool before slicing.
The key steps to making flavorful whole wheat bread includes allowing the dough to rise for the indicated time, preheating the oven, and properly cooling the bread before slicing. These steps ensure a soft and delicious loaf of whole wheat bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a soup or salad: Whole wheat bread goes great with a light soup or a fresh salad, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Serve with a cheese platter: Enjoy the whole wheat bread with a selection of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a delightful and balanced snack or light meal.
- Enjoy with a hearty stew or curry: The bread makes an excellent accompaniment to a flavorful and hearty stew or curry, soaking up the delicious sauces and adding a comforting element to the meal.
- Spread with hummus or avocado: For a quick and healthy snack, spread the bread with creamy hummus or mashed avocado, topped with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Pair with eggs and veggies: Toasted whole wheat bread is perfect for serving with scrambled or poached eggs and a side of sautéed vegetables for a nutritious and filling breakfast or brunch.
- Top with nut butter and sliced fruits: For a delicious and nutritious anytime snack, top the bread with your favorite nut butter and some sliced fruits, like bananas or strawberries, for a quick and wholesome pick-me-up.
Tips for Making Whole Wheat Bread
- Preparation Time: The total time for preparing and baking the whole wheat bread is approximately 3 hours, including rising time. Make sure to schedule your baking based on this time frame.
- Kneading Technique: When kneading the dough, it's important to achieve a soft and smooth texture. Keep the dough slightly sticky, and don't be afraid to add a little extra flour or water to achieve the right consistency.
- Rising Process: Allow the dough to rise for 2 hours in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This is crucial for ensuring a light and airy texture in the finished bread.
- Baking Tips: Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature and keep a close eye on the bread while it bakes. Covering the loaf lightly with foil if it's browning too quickly will prevent it from burning.
- Garnish for Presentation: Brush the top of the loaf with milk before baking to achieve a golden brown color. This step not only enhances the appearance of the bread but also adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
- Cooling and Slicing: Allow the bread to cool for at least 15 minutes on a rack before removing it from the mold and slicing. This will help maintain the structure and prevent the bread from becoming too dense.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and beautifully presented whole wheat bread that is perfect for enjoying with your favorite spreads!
Variations for Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
- Add Nuts and Seeds: Experiment with adding a variety of nuts and seeds such as sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped almonds to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Incorporate Herbs and Spices: Mix in herbs like rosemary, oregano, or garlic powder to give the bread a savory twist. You can also add a hint of spice with ingredients like chili flakes or cumin.
- Substitute Liquid Ingredients: Instead of water, try using different liquids like buttermilk, almond milk, or even a stout beer for a unique flavor profile.
- Sweeten with Honey or Agave: For a sweeter version of the bread, replace the sugar with honey or agave nectar. This will add a subtle sweetness to the final loaf.
- Use Whole Wheat Pastry Flour: If you prefer a finer texture, try using whole wheat pastry flour instead of regular whole wheat flour for a softer, lighter bread.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: For a gluten-free option, replace the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid as needed for a similar recipe.
How to Store Whole Wheat Bread
- Proper Storage is Key: To maintain the freshness of your whole wheat bread, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps to prevent the bread from drying out too quickly.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the bread into airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to keep it fresh for longer. This will also help to prevent it from becoming stale or absorbing any unwanted odors.
- Refrigeration: If you don't plan on finishing the bread within a few days, consider storing it in the refrigerator. This can help to extend its shelf life and maintain its freshness.
- Avoid Freezing: While freezing bread is an option, it's best to consume whole wheat bread within a few days for the best taste and texture. Freezing may alter the quality of the bread.
- Keep Ingredients Fresh: Ensure that your whole wheat flour, yeast, and other ingredients are stored properly as well. This will contribute to the overall freshness and quality of your homemade bread.
- Enjoy Fresh!: Whole wheat bread is best enjoyed fresh, so try to bake smaller batches if you won't be able to finish a large loaf quickly. If you do have leftovers, use them for delicious toast or sandwiches.
By following these simple storage tips, you can preserve the freshness of your homemade whole wheat bread and continue to enjoy it for days to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I adjust the sweetness of the whole wheat bread?
- You can adjust the sweetness of the bread by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar according to your preference.
Can I substitute olive oil with another type of oil?
- Yes, you can substitute olive oil with a different type of oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
What can I do if the dough is too dry or too wet?
- If the dough is too dry, add a little bit of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency. If the dough is too wet, add a little bit of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
Can I use a different type of yogurt?
- Yes, you can use any type of yogurt in the recipe, such as Greek yogurt or regular yogurt.
How can I tell if the bread is fully baked?
- You can tell if the bread is fully baked by tapping the bottom of the loaf - if it sounds hollow, then it is done. You can also use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F.
How should I store the whole wheat bread?
- To store the whole wheat bread, wrap it in a plastic wrap or airtight container and keep it at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Recipe Card
Whole Wheat Bread Recipe 2020-06-15 03:30:57
Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Serving Size: 1 loaf
Prep Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 360 grams (3 cups) whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp dry active yeast or instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 3 tbsp (divided) olive oil
- 1&1/4 cup water
- some (for brushing) milk
Instructions:
- In a wide bowl, add the flour, salt, and yeast and mix until combined.
- Then add sugar, yogurt, ghee, and oil. Gently mix everything and then add water slowly and knead until you get a soft and smooth dough. Add 1 tbsp of flour or water if needed, but the dough must remain slightly sticky.
- Apply some oil over the dough, cover loosely, and let rise for 2 hours in a warm place or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9" loaf pan with oil or non-stick spray.
- After 2 hours, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in the prepared pan, cover loosely, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size for about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees C.
- Make a 2 to 5 mm cross on the dough using a knife and then brush the top of the loaf with milk.
- Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when lightly tapped. Cover lightly with foil if the bread is browning too quickly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 15 minutes on a cooling rack.
- Then remove from the mold and let cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy the bread with jam or peanut butter.
Step-By-Step Instructions:
In a wide bowl, add the flour, salt and yeast and mix until combined.
Then add sugar, yogurt, ghee and oil.
Just mix everything gently
and then add water slowly and knead until you get a soft and smooth dough.
You can add 1 tbsp of flour or water if needed. But the dough must remain slightly sticky, it will stick a bit to the bowl.
Then apply some oil over the dough, cover loosely with cling film or kitchen
towel or with a lid
and let rise for 2 hours in a warm place or until doubled in size as shown in the picture. Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9″ loaf pan with oil or non-stick spray.
After 2 hours, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
Place in a prepared pan, cover loosely with greased foil or cling film and let
rise in warm place until doubled in size for about 30 to 45 mins.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200 degrees C. Make a 2 to 5 mm cross by using knife on the dough and then brush the top of the loaf with milk. Bake for about 30 to 35 mins or until loaf sounds hollow when lightly tapped.
If your bread is browning fast, cover lightly with foil. Remove from the oven
and let cool for about 15 mins on a cooling rack.