Whole Wheat French Bread
Experience the wholesome goodness of homemade Whole Wheat French Bread, the perfect blend of rustic charm and heart-healthy ingredients. This recipe swaps traditional white flour for nutrient-rich whole wheat, creating a loaf with a deep, nutty flavor and a delightfully chewy texture. A touch of honey adds a hint of natural sweetness, while a drizzle of olive oil enhances the dough's softness. With just a few simple steps—like kneading, rising, and shaping—you can replicate the classic French bread look with a healthier twist. Whether served warm with butter, as a base for hearty sandwiches, or alongside your favorite soups, this homemade bread is a versatile addition to any meal. Plus, with minimal prep time and a golden crust that's irresistibly aromatic, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Warm water
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 3 cups Whole wheat flour
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour (optional, for kneading)
Directions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and honey. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
Step 2
Add the salt and olive oil to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
Step 3
Gradually add the whole wheat flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (using all-purpose flour if needed to prevent sticking) and knead it for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Step 5
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. 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 doubles in size.
Step 6
Punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape the dough into a long, slender loaf to mimic the classic French bread shape.
Step 7
Transfer the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 8
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make a few diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf to allow it to expand while baking.
Step 9
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 10
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (833.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1659.8 |
| Total Fat 21.5g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 3.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3564.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 328.7g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 46.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 19.2g | |
| Protein 57.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 135.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 17.0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1678.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories