Low Sodium Sunflower Seed Bread

Delightfully nutty and naturally wholesome, this Low Sodium Sunflower Seed Bread is a healthier homemade alternative for bread lovers seeking to reduce their salt intake. Made with nutrient-rich whole wheat flour and a sprinkle of raw sunflower seeds, this recipe offers a hearty texture and a subtly sweet flavor thanks to honey. The optional additions of sunflower seed butter and vital wheat gluten enhance the bread’s richness and softness, making it perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying on its own. With just a touch of olive oil and a salt substitute (if desired), this bread comes together with minimal effort and no compromise on taste. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you'll love the satisfaction of making this golden-brown loaf that’s low in sodium but big on flavor. Ideal for meal preps or freezing, it’s a versatile pantry staple you’ll want to bake again and again.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 3 cups Whole wheat flour
• 0.5 cups Raw sunflower seeds
• 1 packet Active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 1.25 cups Warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Unsalted sunflower seed butter (optional, for added richness)
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt substitute (optional, ensure it is sodium-free)
• 2 tablespoons Vital wheat gluten (optional, to improve texture of the bread)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the warm water (110°F/45°C) and the packet of active dry yeast. Stir gently and allow it to sit for about 5-7 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, vital wheat gluten (if using), and sunflower seeds. Stir to distribute the seeds evenly throughout the flour.

Step 3

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the honey and olive oil to the liquid mixture, stirring to combine.

Step 4

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

If using sunflower seed butter for added richness, knead it into the dough during this step.

Step 7

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 8

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard 9x5-inch bread loaf pan.

Step 9

Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf into the prepared pan.

Step 10

Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.

Step 11

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Step 13

Slice and serve as desired. This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(862.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2361.8

Total Fat 97.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 32.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 322.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 54.8g	0%
Total Sugars 41.4g
Protein 80.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 211.5mg	0%
Iron 19.0mg	0%
Potassium 3875.3mg	0%

*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: 35.2%

Protein: 12.9%

Carbs: 51.9%