Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat

Name: Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups whole wheat flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Recipes

This Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour in a simple, delicious loaf that's ideal for sandwiches or toast.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:55:27.464Z

This Easy Everyday Bread Whole Wheat is a staple in many households. It’s not just healthy; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you're spreading butter on a fresh slice, making a sandwich, or toasting it for breakfast, this bread will quickly become a favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty flavor from whole wheat flour
Perfectly soft texture that’s easy to slice
Simple ingredients that are easy to find
Great for sandwiches, toast, or just with butter

      

The Benefits of Whole Wheat Bread

Whole wheat bread is a nutritious choice that offers numerous health benefits. Unlike refined white bread, whole wheat bread retains the bran and germ, which are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This means that each slice not only satisfies your hunger but also supports digestive health and helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Incorporating whole wheat bread into your diet can also aid in weight management. The fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, helping to reduce overall calorie intake. Plus, the nutty flavor adds a satisfying taste to your meals, making it a delightful option for breakfast or lunch.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bread

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh before starting. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect rise. If you're unsure, you can proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar, waiting for it to become frothy before proceeding with the recipe.

Kneading is another essential step. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure and texture. If you're short on time, consider using a stand mixer with a dough hook, which can save you effort while ensuring consistent results.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, store your whole wheat bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider slicing the loaf and freezing individual pieces. This way, you can enjoy fresh bread anytime by toasting slices directly from the freezer.

Whole wheat bread is incredibly versatile. Use it for hearty sandwiches with your favorite fillings, or enjoy a slice toasted with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delicious breakfast treat. Pair it with soups and salads for a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 cups whole wheat flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1 1/4 cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm water, honey (or sugar), and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

Mix Ingredients

Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

Bake the Bread

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked whole wheat bread with your favorite toppings!

Understanding Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour is made from the entire grain of wheat, which means it provides more nutrients than its refined counterparts. It contains higher amounts of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients such as B vitamins and iron. This makes it a superior choice for anyone looking to enhance their diet with whole foods.

When using whole wheat flour, keep in mind that it absorbs more liquid than all-purpose flour. Therefore, you may need to adjust the liquid content in your recipes to achieve the desired dough consistency. This adaptability is what makes whole wheat flour an excellent ingredient for various baked goods.

Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when baking bread is not allowing enough time for the dough to rise. Rising is crucial for developing flavor and texture, so be patient and let the dough double in size as instructed. Rushing this step can lead to dense and heavy bread.

Another pitfall is failing to measure ingredients accurately. Baking is as much a science as it is an art, so using the correct proportions can significantly affect the outcome. Invest in a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially when working with dry ingredients like flour.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and denser texture.

→ How do I store the bread?

Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add ingredients like nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Add them during the mixing stage for extra texture and flavor.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs well with butter, jams, or as a base for sandwiches.