Artificial Food Coloring Free Classic Whole Wheat Bread
There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a golden, fragrant loaf out of the oven and knowing exactly what went into it. Store-bought breads are notorious for sneaking in additives, dyes, and preservatives that have no business being in a simple loaf — this recipe keeps things refreshingly clean with just whole wheat flour, honey, butter, salt, yeast, and water. The honey gives the crumb a subtle natural sweetness, while the butter brushed over the top at the end creates that irresistible glossy, golden crust. Whole wheat flour brings a hearty, nutty depth that makes every slice feel genuinely nourishing rather than just filling. The two-rise process takes a little patience, but it rewards you with a tight, even crumb that holds up beautifully for sandwiches or thick-cut toast. If you've been scanning ingredient labels and feeling frustrated, baking this at home puts you completely in control from the first stir to the final slice.
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Learn more →Ingredients
12 servings
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (105–110°f / 40–43°c)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for kneading
- 1 ½ tsp fine salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- 1
Combine the warm water, yeast, and honey in the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl). Stir briefly and let stand for 5–10 minutes, until the surface is foamy and the mixture smells yeasty.
- 2
Add the whole wheat flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed with the dough hook (or stir with a wooden spoon) until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes.
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