Honey Wheat Bread
Honey Wheat Bread is a wholesome, naturally sweet bread combining the rich nutty flavor of whole wheat flour with the subtle sweetness of honey. Soft with a slightly chewy crust, it is perfect toasted or fresh and makes a nutritious and versatile addition to your breakfast or snacks.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (100-110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed or oats
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
- Sunflower or sesame seeds for topping
- Coconut oil or plant-based margarine (for vegan option)
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and active dry yeast in a bowl; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Ingredients: Add honey, olive oil or butter, salt, and whole wheat flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing the gluten structure for proper rise.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Loaf: Gently punch down the risen dough, shape it into a loaf, and place into a greased bread pan for the final rise.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough and allow it to rise again until it reaches just above the edge of the pan, approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the pan and cool on a rack to preserve moisture and flavor before slicing.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast, checking expiration for best results.
- Maintain water temperature between 100-110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
- Knead well to develop gluten, which gives structure and chewiness.
- Allow adequate rising time for a light, airy loaf rather than dense bread.
- Do not skip cooling; it helps the bread slice cleanly and locks in moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 loaf)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Honey Wheat Bread, whole wheat bread, homemade bread, healthy bread, breakfast bread, natural sweeteners