Barley Free Classic Multigrain Bread

Total time3 hr

Prep time25 min

Cook time35 min

4.8

(21)

Homemade multigrain bread is one of those deeply satisfying bakes that makes the whole house smell incredible, and this version delivers serious texture and flavor thanks to a grain soaker made with rolled oats, millet, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds. That soaking step is the secret weapon — it softens the grains before they ever hit the dough, so every slice has a tender, moist crumb rather than a dense or gummy one. Many store-bought multigrain loaves sneak in barley flakes or barley flour as a filler grain, which makes label-reading a constant chore, but every ingredient here is straightforward and easy to verify. The dough itself comes together with whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, honey, and butter, giving you a loaf that's hearty and slightly sweet without being heavy. A final brush of melted butter before it goes into the oven creates that gorgeous, golden crust that practically begs to be sliced while still warm. Whether you use a stand mixer or knead by hand, the process is approachable and the results are genuinely bakery-worthy. Let it cool fully before cutting — it's hard to wait, but the crumb sets beautifully and every slice will be cleaner and more satisfying for it.

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Ingredients

12 servings

For the grain soaker

½ cup rolled oats
2 tbsp millet
2 tbsp sunflower seeds
2 tbsp flaxseeds
½ cup boiling water

For the dough

2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
1 cup warm water (105–110°f / 40–43°c)
2 tbsp honey
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
1 ½ tsp fine salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For finishing

1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp rolled oats (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the rolled oats, millet, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds in a small heatproof bowl. Pour the boiling water over the grain mixture and stir to combine. Let the soaker stand for 20 minutes, until the water is fully absorbed and the mixture has cooled to room temperature.
2
In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl), combine the warm water and honey and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let stand for 5–10 minutes, until the yeast is foamy and active.

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