Better Than Basic Wheat Bread

Elevate your homemade bread game with this "Better Than Basic Wheat Bread" recipe that strikes the perfect balance between wholesome flavor and soft, tender texture. Made with a combination of nutrient-rich whole wheat flour and light, airy bread flour, this loaf is enriched with honey, olive oil, and just a touch of butter for a hint of natural sweetness and richness. The result is a perfectly risen bread with a lightly golden crust that’s irresistibly aromatic. With simple, step-by-step instructions and only 20 minutes of hands-on prep time, this recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven, this versatile loaf will become a staple in your kitchen. Try this homemade wheat bread recipe today for a bakery-quality result that’s delicious, healthy, and endlessly satisfying!

Nutriscore Rating: 44/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1.5 cups bread flour
• 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1.25 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons milk or water (for brushing the top)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, bread flour, and salt.

Step 3

Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and softened butter to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6

Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 7

Cover the loaf with a clean cloth and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with milk or water for a softer crust.

Step 9

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10

Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	334 grams (334.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1478

Total Fat 68.20g	87%
Saturated Fat 21.70g	109%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 2376mg	103%
Total Carbohydrate 197.20g	72%
Dietary Fiber 6.50g	23%
Total Sugars 52.20g
Protein 25.80g	52%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 40mg	3%
Iron 9mg	51%
Potassium 370mg	8%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.8%

Protein: 6.9%

Carbs: 52.4%