Here’s a hearty and wholesome recipe for Homemade Brown Bread — soft, slightly sweet, and made with whole wheat flour for extra flavor and nutrition. This is great for sandwiches, toast, or slathered with butter and honey!
🍞 Soft Homemade Brown Bread (Whole Wheat)
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
🕒 Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
🍽 Yields: 1 loaf
✅ Ingredients:
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1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
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2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
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1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
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2 tbsp oil or melted butter
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1 tsp salt
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Optional: 1–2 tbsp oats or seeds for topping
🍳 Instructions:
1. Activate the yeast
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar/honey.
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Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the dough
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Add oil, salt, whole wheat flour, and 1 cup of the all-purpose flour.
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Stir until combined, then add the rest of the flour gradually.
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Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it’s soft and elastic. Add a bit more flour if it’s sticky.
3. First rise
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape & second rise
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Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
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Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it rises just over the edge of the pan.
5. Bake
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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(Optional) Brush the top with water or milk and sprinkle with oats or seeds.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
6. Cool
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Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
🍯 Serving Suggestions:
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Toasted with butter and jam
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With peanut butter and banana
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For hearty sandwiches or grilled cheese
