Whole Grain Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients: whole wheat flour, water, yeast, salt, honey or another sweetener, and a splash of oil or butter.

Step 2: Activate Yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm water (between 100-110°F) and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour the yeast mixture and a splash of oil or melted butter into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 5: Knead Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 6: First Rise

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

Step 7: Shape Loaf

Punch down the dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased loaf pan.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.

Step 9: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 10: Bake Bread

Bake the bread for about 30-35 minutes, or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and has a golden-brown crust.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.