Whole Grain Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This whole grain bread recipe is simple, reliable, and far healthier than most store-bought options. It’s made with real, wholesome ingredients, contains no preservatives, and can be customized to include seeds or nuts for added texture. You’ll love the nutty aroma, chewy texture, and how it keeps you full longer thanks to its high fiber content. It also freezes well, making it perfect for batch baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Whole wheat flour
• All-purpose flour or bread flour (for structure)
• Warm water
• Active dry yeast
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Optional: rolled oats, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chia seeds for topping or mix-in

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water with honey. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and whole wheat flour. Gradually mix in all-purpose or bread flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place into a greased loaf pan.
6. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Optional: Brush the top with water or egg wash and sprinkle with oats or seeds.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf (about 12 slices).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Bake time: 35 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes

Variations

• Add sunflower, flax, or pumpkin seeds for a multigrain version.
• Use molasses instead of honey for deeper flavor.
• Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for added chewiness.
• Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet touch.
• Use all whole wheat flour for a denser, more rustic loaf.

Storage/Reheating

Store whole grain bread at room temperature, tightly wrapped, for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze slices or the whole loaf in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, toast slices directly from the freezer or warm the loaf in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

Is whole grain bread healthier than white bread?

Yes, whole grain bread contains more fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants than white bread made from refined flour.

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Absolutely. The dough can be mixed and kneaded entirely by hand.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Tap the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, it’s done. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temp should be around 190–200°F (88–93°C).

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

This specific recipe uses wheat flour and isn’t gluten-free, but you can look for or adapt a recipe that uses gluten-free flours and binders.

What’s the difference between whole grain and whole wheat?

Whole wheat is one type of whole grain. Whole grain includes all parts of the grain and can refer to other grains like barley, oats, and rye as well.

Why is my whole grain bread dense?

Whole wheat flour has less gluten than white flour, so using a mix of flours helps lighten the texture. Proper kneading and rising are also essential.

Can I add nuts to the bread?

Yes, chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be folded into the dough before the second rise.

How can I make the crust crispier?

Use a steam method by placing a pan of hot water in the oven while baking or misting the loaf with water before baking.

How long should I let the bread cool before slicing?

Let it cool for at least 1 hour to set the structure and avoid gummy slices.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, use the same amount and skip the proofing step. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Conclusion

Whole grain bread is a satisfying and nourishing addition to any meal, offering rich flavor and a hearty texture that store-bought loaves can’t match. This recipe is easy enough for beginners and can be customized to fit your preferences. Whether toasted with butter or piled high with your favorite sandwich ingredients, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Whole Grain Bread

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A hearty and nutritious homemade whole grain bread recipe made with whole wheat flour, sweetened naturally, and perfect for sandwiches or toast. Packed with fiber and wholesome ingredients.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 2 cups whole wheat flour
2. 1 cup all-purpose flour or bread flour
3. 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
4. 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
5. 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
6. 1 teaspoon salt
7. 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
8. Optional: 2 tablespoons rolled oats (for topping)
9. Optional: 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, or chia seeds (for mix-in or topping)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water with honey. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

1. Add olive oil, salt, and whole wheat flour. Gradually stir in all-purpose or bread flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
4. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan.
5. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Optional: Brush top with water or egg wash and sprinkle with oats or seeds.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

• For a denser loaf, use all whole wheat flour.
• Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
• Use molasses instead of honey for a deeper flavor profile.
• To make crust crispier, use a steam method during baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg