Artisan Wheat Bread – A Home-Baked

Artisan wheat bread is a rustic, flavorful loaf characterized by its hearty whole wheat content and crisp crust.

Made with a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, this bread offers a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture.

The process involves activating yeast, mixing and kneading the dough, and allowing it to rise twice before baking.

Ideal for a variety of meals, artisan wheat bread is both a nutritious and delicious choice, embodying the essence of traditional bread-making with a touch of artisanal flair.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through creating a loaf that boasts a perfect rise, a tender crumb, and a golden-brown crust. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread!

Why You’ll Love This Artisan Wheat Bread?

Artisan wheat bread is a staple in many households due to its wholesome ingredients and robust flavor. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

➤ Healthy: Made with 100% whole wheat flour, this bread is packed with fiber and nutrients.

➤ Versatile: Ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter.

➤ Simple Ingredients: With just a few key ingredients, you can create bakery-quality bread at home.

How To Prepare Artisan Wheat Bread?

Recipe Details

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Rising time: 1 hours

Baking time: 30-35 minutes

Total time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Course: Main course, side dish

Cuisine: American

Yield: 1 loaf

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowl,
• measuring cups and spoons,
• Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet,
• parchment paper

Ingredients

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, instant yeast, salt, and honey.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour the warm water into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.  

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape it into a tight ball. Place the ball in a greased Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Remove the damp cloth from the dough and slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the Dutch oven for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts Artisan Wheat Bread (Per Serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	160
Carbohydrates	28g
Protein	4g
Fat	2g
Fiber	4g

Expert Tips for Artisan Wheat Bread

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly ground whole wheat flour and active yeast for the best flavor and rise.

✔ Adjust Hydration: Whole wheat flour needs more water. Add extra if the dough feels too dry, or reduce if it’s too sticky.

✔ Knead Well: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes to develop gluten, which gives the bread structure and chew.

✔ Proper Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot. A slow, thorough rise improves flavor and texture.

✔ Preheat and Steam: Preheat your oven fully and add a small dish of water to create steam for a crispier crust.

What Makes Artisan Bread Different?

Artisan bread stands out for its emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and traditional techniques. Unlike mass-produced bread, which often relies on additives and mechanized processes, artisan bread is crafted with time-honored methods, using high-quality ingredients and natural fermentation.

This approach results in a distinctive texture, richer flavors, and a unique crust, reflecting the skill and creativity of the baker.

Is Whole Wheat Artisan Bread Healthy?

Whole wheat artisan bread can be a healthy choice, particularly because it typically contains more nutrients and fiber compared to refined white bread.

The use of whole wheat flour means it retains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the grain, offering more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Artisan methods also often avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives, emphasizing natural ingredients and traditional techniques.

Conclusion

Baking artisan wheat bread at home is both an enjoyable and rewarding experience. This recipe offers a simple yet effective method to achieve a deliciously rustic loaf with a hearty flavor and a perfect crust.

By using high-quality ingredients, mastering the kneading process, and allowing adequate rise times, you’ll be able to create a bread that rivals even the best bakery offerings.

The result is a versatile and wholesome addition to any meal, whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with your favorite spread.

Embrace the art of bread-making, and savor the satisfaction of creating something truly special from scratch. Happy baking!

For Your More Delicious Recipe

Air Fryer Banana Bread Recipe || Moist & Easy

Traditional Apple Banana Bread Recipe

Perfect Chocolate and Strawberry Cake

Vegan Vanilla Pound Cake With Applesauce

Vanilla Sponge Cake Recipe – Soft & Easy