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Easy Soft Honey Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread

A close-up of a freshly baked whole wheat bread loaf, showing its golden crust and soft, airy crumb texture.

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Bake a soft, wholesome whole wheat bread loaf at home. This easy recipe uses honey for natural sweetness, resulting in a tender crumb perfect for sandwiches and toast.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for a slightly lighter texture)
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir the honey, melted butter, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Add the whole wheat flour and the egg. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add the all-purpose flour if the dough remains too sticky.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  7. Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, or until it crests about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second rise.
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  10. Remove the loaf from the pan immediately and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing for the best texture.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute milk for the water in the initial step.
  • If you prefer a crustier exterior, brush the top of the loaf with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water) before the second rise.
  • This bread freezes well once fully cooled; slice before freezing for easy toast portions later.

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