Citrus Free Classic Whole Wheat Bread

Total time3 hr

Prep time25 min

Cook time35 min

4.5

(9)

There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a golden, fragrant loaf out of the oven, and this whole wheat version delivers that moment every single time. The dough comes together with just a handful of pantry staples — whole wheat flour, honey, butter, yeast, salt, and water — so there is nothing hidden or unexpected lurking in the ingredient list. For anyone navigating a citrus-free lifestyle, store-bought breads can be a minefield of preservatives and natural flavor additives that sometimes sneak in citric acid or citrus-derived ingredients, making homemade the smarter, safer choice. This recipe keeps things beautifully straightforward, relying on honey for a gentle sweetness and butter for a rich, tender crumb rather than any acidic additives. The two-rise process builds real depth of flavor, and that final brush of melted butter over the hot crust gives the loaf a gorgeous sheen and an irresistible finish. Slice it thick for sandwiches, toast it for breakfast, or just tear into it warm — it is the kind of everyday bread that earns a permanent spot in your weekly routine.

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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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