Honey Whole Wheat Bread - freshly baked bread

Honey Whole Wheat Bread

Whole Wheat & Multigrain Bread

A soft, lightly sweet whole wheat bread that's nutritious without sacrificing flavour.

Prep Time

15 min

Proof Time

1h 30m

Bake Time

35 min

Servings

10

Calories

185

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1½ cups bread flour
  • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1¼ cups warm water
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    Dissolve 1 tbsp honey in warm water. Add yeast and wait 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mix

    Add remaining ingredients and both flours. Mix and knead 10 minutes until smooth.

  3. 3

    First Rise

    Cover and rise 60 minutes until doubled.

  4. 4

    Shape & Second Rise

    Shape into a loaf, place in a greased pan. Rise 30 minutes.

  5. 5

    Bake

    Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes. Brush with butter.

Baker's Notes

Pure whole wheat bread can be dense and bitter. My secret is the 60/40 blend of whole wheat to bread flour — you get the nutrition without sacrificing texture.

Baker Thomas Moreau

About This Recipe

There's something quietly magical about this honey whole wheat loaf — the kind of bread that sneaks nutrition into your morning routine without tasting like cardboard. The 60/40 blend of whole wheat to bread flour gives you the nutty depth of whole grain without the density, while honey does double duty, feeding the yeast for a lovely rise and lending a gentle sweetness that makes every slice taste almost dessert-like.

Canadian home cooks reach for this recipe because it delivers everything they want from a weeknight loaf: quick prep, one bowl mixing, and a crumb that's tender enough to spread butter on straight from the oven. It's the bread that shows up to brunch, sandwiches, and toast without asking for much in return.

Tips for the Best Honey Whole Wheat Bread

Surveillez bien l'hydratation — la farine complète absorbe plus d'eau que vous ne l'attendez, alors résistez à ajouter du liquide supplémentaire jusqu'à ce que vous ayez pétris pendant les dix minutes complètes. La pâte devrait être collante mais pas collante. Quand vous êtes prêt à façonner, donnez-lui un roulement ferme vers la couture pour que la miche tienne pendant sa levée finale de trente minutes.

What to Serve With It

Slice thick and serve warm with whipped butter and a drizzle of local honey — especially nice in the fall. For sandwiches, this bread stands up to smoked salmon, poutine-style pulled pork, or a generous layer of maple bacon. Pair with a bowl of soup on chilly evenings, or keep a loaf around for weekend breakfasts alongside maple syrup and fresh berries.

Storage & Reheating

Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze slices in a freezer bag for a month. Reheat individual slices in a toaster or warm the whole loaf at 300°F for ten minutes before slicing — never microwave, or the crust will turn rubbery.

Nutrition Facts

185

cal

4g

Protein

5g

Fat

28g

Carbs

3g

Fiber

309mg

Sodium

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for the bread flour?+

Yes, though the crumb will be slightly softer since bread flour has more protein. The loaf won't rise quite as high, but it'll still be delicious.

Why does my loaf come out flat after baking?+

This usually means the yeast was too old or the water was too hot when activating it. Check your yeast's expiry date and aim for water around 110°F — warm but not scalding.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?+

Absolutely — it's a classic Canadian swap. Maple syrup adds a deeper, woodsy sweetness that pairs beautifully with whole wheat. Use the same amount.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?+

Look for a deep golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 190°F. Tap the bottom — it should sound hollow. If you don't have a thermometer, the crust colour alone is usually reliable.

Can I make this bread ahead and freeze it?+

Yes! Freeze the baked loaf once it's completely cool, wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw at room temperature or reheat at 300°F for ten minutes. You can also freeze shaped dough before baking.

Tips & Tricks

  • Whole wheat flour absorbs more water — add extra if dough feels dry.
  • Honey feeds the yeast and helps the bread brown beautifully.
  • Let cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Reviews (4)

Jennifer K.★★★★★

This is now our go-to bread recipe. The house smelled incredible while it was baking. My kids couldn't wait to tear into a warm slice.

André G.★★★★★

Just like from the bakery! The crust is crispy and the crumb is soft. Bravo for this extraordinary recipe.

Chantal D.★★★★★

Easy to prepare and so delicious! Even my picky kids went for seconds. This bread has become a staple in our home.

Pierre T.★★★★★

Excellent recipe. I followed the instructions to the letter and the result was perfect. My wife loved it. The best homemade bread I've made.