Crusty Whole Wheat Bread
A simple recipe for a rustic loaf of 100% whole wheat bread with a wonderfully crisp crust and soft, chewy crumb. This easy method is perfect for beginners and makes the ideal companion for hearty soups and stews.
For 16 servings
Activate the yeast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is active.
TIPIf the mixture doesn't foam, your yeast may be old or the water too hot or cold. It's best to start over with new yeast.Form the dough.
- Add the whole wheat flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
- Make sure there are no dry patches of flour left.
Let the dough rise.
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot and let it rise for 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the loaf.
- Lightly flour a clean work surface.
- Gently scrape the dough out of the bowl onto the surface.
- Fold the edges of the dough into the center a few times to form a round loaf.
- Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal.
Let the loaf rest and preheat the oven.
Cover the shaped loaf loosely with the towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. While it rests, place a 5-quart Dutch oven with its lid on in the center of your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
Bake the bread covered.
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Using the parchment paper as a sling, lower the dough into the pot. Cover with the lid, return to the oven, and bake for 30 minutes.
TIPBe extremely careful! The Dutch oven will be very hot. Use oven mitts at all times.Bake uncovered to brown the crust.
Remove the lid from the Dutch oven and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Cool completely before slicing.
Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This can take up to 2 hours.
TIPDo not slice the bread while it's warm. The steam inside is still cooking the crumb, and cutting it early can result in a gummy texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a chewier crumb, you can add 1/4 cup of vital wheat gluten to the flour.
- 2A Dutch oven is ideal for creating steam, which results in a wonderfully crusty bread. If you don't have one, you can use a pizza stone and a pan of hot water on a lower rack.
- 3Store the cooled bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid plastic bags which can make the crust soft.
- 4This bread freezes beautifully. Slice the cooled loaf, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
To make this bread vegan, simply replace the honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar.
high proteinHigh protein
For a higher protein content, add 1/4 cup of vital wheat gluten to the dry ingredients. This will also give the bread a lighter, chewier texture.
healthyHealthy
Boost the fiber and healthy fats by mixing in 2 tablespoons each of flax seeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds with the flour.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast and skip the 10-minute activation step.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Made with 100% whole wheat flour, this bread is packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps with satiety.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from whole grains are broken down slowly by the body, providing a steady release of energy without spiking blood sugar levels.
Rich in B Vitamins
Whole wheat is a natural source of B vitamins like niacin, thiamine, and folate, which are essential for metabolism and overall energy production.
Contains Essential Minerals
This bread provides important minerals such as manganese, selenium, and magnesium, which play roles in bone health, antioxidant defense, and nerve function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this bread is very healthy. It's made with 100% whole wheat flour, which is high in dietary fiber, B vitamins, and minerals. Fiber is excellent for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full.