Seven Grain Bread
Bake a wholesome, rustic loaf packed with nutrient-dense seeds and grains that yield a hearty texture and rich, nutty flavor.
Ingredients
- •1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- •1 1/2 cups warm water (355ml)
- •2 tablespoons honey (30ml)
- •3 tablespoons olive oil (45ml)
- •2 cups whole wheat flour (240g)
- •2 cups bread flour (260g)
- •1/2 cup seven-grain cereal mix or multi-grain blend (75g)
- •2 tablespoons flaxseeds (15g)
- •2 tablespoons sunflower seeds (18g)
- •1 tablespoon rolled oats (10g)
- •1 1/2 teaspoons salt (9g)
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast, then let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- 2
Stir in the olive oil, whole wheat flour, seven-grain cereal mix, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, rolled oats, and salt until a sticky dough begins to form.
- 3
Gradually add the bread flour, a half cup at a time, mixing well until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- 5
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- 6
Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a neat loaf, then place it into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- 7
Cover the loaf pan and let the bread rise a second time for 45 to 60 minutes until puffy.
- 8
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 9
Bake the loaf for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
- 10
Remove the bread from the pan immediately and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
💡 Chef tips
- You can customize the grain and seed mix with whatever you have on hand, such as sesame seeds, chia seeds, or cracked wheat.
- To store, keep the sliced bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze sliced for up to 3 months.
- For an extra crispy crust, place a small pan of boiling water on the bottom rack of the oven during the first 15 minutes of baking.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished bread has a deep golden, crackly crust studded with toasted seeds, a dense yet tender crumb, and a deeply satisfying nutty aroma and flavor.