Golden Honey Wheat Harvest Loaves

Wholesome Simple Wheat Bread Recipe

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 2 small loaves

Description:

This delightful recipe for Wholesome Simple Wheat Bread is inspired by “No Excuse Bread” from The LLL Cookbook (Mother’s in the Kitchen, 1971). It’s perfect for those who crave delicious, homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with fresh, organic ingredients, this bread is both healthy and kid-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for kneading
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup wheat germ
• 1/2 cup ground flax seed
• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups warm water
• 3-4 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, molasses, honey, eggs, olive oil, wheat germ, ground flax seed, and salt.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

2. Kneading the Dough:

   • Gradually add 2 cups of unbleached flour to the mixture in the bowl. Stir until it forms a sticky dough.
   • Sprinkle a clean surface with flour. Transfer the dough onto the floured surface.
   • Drizzle olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking, then knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed if the dough is too sticky.

3. First Rise:

   • Return the kneaded dough to the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and a towel.
   • Let it rest for 20 minutes to allow the dough to rise.

4. Shaping the Loaves:

   • After resting, knead the dough a few more times to release any air bubbles.
   • Divide the dough into two equal portions.
   • On a lightly oiled surface, use a rolling pin to roll each portion into a triangular shape.
   • Starting from the small end, roll up each portion into a loaf shape. Seal the ends by tucking them under.
   • Place the shaped loaves into greased bread pans, with the seam sides facing down.

5. Second Rise and Baking:

   • Cover the pans with plastic wrap or place them in used commercial bread bags.
   • Refrigerate the loaves for 2 to 24 hours to allow for a slow rise.
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 10 minutes before baking.
   • Before placing in the oven, use an oiled toothpick to puncture any air bubbles that may have formed on the surface of the loaves.
   • Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

6. Cooling and Serving:

   • Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
   • Enjoy slices of this wholesome wheat bread warm with butter or your favorite spreads!

This Wholesome Simple Wheat Bread is not only nutritious but also a delightful treat that your family will love. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. Embrace the joy of baking homemade bread with this easy and rewarding recipe!