This whole wheat sandwich bread is a nutritious and wholesome option for your sandwiches. Made with whole wheat flour, this bread is rich in fiber and has a hearty texture that complements a variety of fillings.
The recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners, allowing you to enjoy fresh, homemade bread without preservatives.
Wholesome Ingredients for Your Bread
Creating a loaf of whole wheat sandwich bread starts with selecting the right ingredients. Whole wheat flour serves as the foundation, providing essential fiber and nutrients.
Vital wheat gluten enhances the bread’s texture, ensuring it remains soft and elastic. This combination is key to achieving that perfect balance of crusty exterior and fluffy interior.
Other ingredients include active dry yeast, which helps the bread rise, and a touch of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. Olive oil or melted butter adds richness, while salt enhances the overall flavor.
The Bread-Making Process
Making whole wheat sandwich bread is a straightforward process that can be enjoyed by bakers of all skill levels. The first step involves activating the yeast by mixing it with warm water and honey, allowing it to froth.
Next, combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Once mixed, add the yeast mixture and oil, stirring until a dough forms. Kneading the dough for about 8-10 minutes develops its elasticity, which is crucial for a good rise.
Rising to Perfection
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. This first rise typically takes about an hour, during which the dough should double in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. A second rise of 30-45 minutes allows the dough to rise above the edge of the pan, preparing it for baking.
Baking Your Loaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough completes its second rise. Baking the bread for 30-35 minutes will yield a golden brown crust that sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Once baked, remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for achieving the best texture when slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This whole wheat sandwich bread is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of fillings. Fresh vegetables, deli meats, and spreads can transform simple slices into delicious sandwiches.
Consider layering fresh greens, tomatoes, and lean proteins for a nutritious meal. The hearty texture of the bread complements these ingredients perfectly, making each bite satisfying.
Health Benefits of Whole Wheat Bread
Whole wheat bread is not just tasty; it also offers numerous health benefits. Rich in fiber, it aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
The nutrients found in whole wheat flour, such as B vitamins and minerals, contribute to overall well-being. Incorporating this bread into your diet can support heart health and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Healthy Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread Recipe
This sandwich bread features a blend of whole wheat flour and vital wheat gluten for a soft and elastic texture. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish, including rising time, and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, and salt.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 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 doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it rises above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g