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Soft Honey Whole Wheat Sandwich Loaf

A close-up of a freshly baked loaf of whole wheat bread, showing its soft crumb, resting on a white plate.

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You can bake a soft, fluffy whole wheat sandwich loaf at home using this simple recipe. This bread uses honey for natural sweetness and results in a tender crumb perfect for daily sandwiches and toast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Stir the honey, melted butter, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: Gradually add the whole wheat flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the loaf: Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a log and place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  7. Second rise: Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it has crested about 1 inch over the rim of the pan.
  8. Preheat and bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf lightly with milk, if using.
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  10. Cool: Remove the bread from the pan immediately and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing for the best texture.

Notes

  • For a 100 percent whole wheat bread that is extra soft, you can substitute 1/4 cup of the whole wheat flour with bread flour.
  • If you want a rustic whole wheat bread, you can skip the loaf pan and bake it free-form on a baking stone after the second rise.
  • This recipe makes a great homemade whole wheat bread for sandwiches.

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