We’ve fallen head over heels for the wholesome charm of Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread, a recipe that brings bakery-fresh goodness straight to our kitchens. Inspired by the beloved Great Harvest brand, this loaf combines the nutty richness of whole wheat with a touch of golden honey for a naturally sweet twist that’ll have you craving seconds.
It’s not just delicious—it’s a nutritious staple we turn to for its hearty texture and simple ingredients. Whether you’re baking for family or meal prep, we’ll guide you through creating this crowd-pleaser that elevates everyday meals.
Ingredients
To craft our Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend whole wheat’s nutty texture with honey’s natural sweetness for a nutritious, homemade loaf. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used during preparation, including specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F, for activating yeast to ensure a light, airy rise)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (ensure it’s fresh for optimal fermentation and flavor development)
- ¼ cup honey (local variety preferred for its subtle floral notes that enhance the bread’s sweetness)
- 3 ½ cups whole wheat flour (freshly milled if possible, to maximize nutritional value and earthy taste)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (helps achieve the perfect crumb structure when combined with whole wheat)
- 2 teaspoons salt (fine sea salt works best to balance flavors without overpowering the honey)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter for added richness, which coats the dough for a tender interior)
These ingredients yield one standard loaf, making about 12 slices, and highlight the bread’s wholesome appeal with whole grains and natural sweeteners.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential tools. These items ensure that our dough mixes smoothly, rises perfectly, and bakes to a golden, fragrant finish. Building on the fresh ingredients we discussed earlier, selecting the right equipment helps streamline the process and achieve consistent results every time.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this for combining ingredients like warm water, yeast, and flour. Opt for a glass or stainless steel bowl that holds at least 4 quarts to allow room for dough expansion.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe’s success, so we always reach for a set of dry and liquid measuring cups plus spoons for items like honey and salt.
- Kitchen Scale: For precise weighing of flours and other dry goods, we prefer a digital scale that measures in grams and ounces – it minimizes errors and ensures our loaf turns out just right.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook or Hand Mixer/Wooden Spoon: We find a stand mixer speeds up kneading the dough, but if you’re going manual, a sturdy wooden spoon works well for smaller batches.
- Loaf Pan (9×5 inches): This is where our bread takes shape and bakes evenly. We recommend a non-stick version to prevent sticking and promote that classic, crusty exterior.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: To check the water temperature for activating yeast or the internal dough temp, we use this tool for foolproof results.
- Oven with Timer: A standard oven is essential for baking at the precise temperature needed. We always preheat ours to ensure even heat distribution.
- Plastic Wrap or Clean Kitchen Towel: For covering the dough during rising, we opt for these to keep it moist and protected from drafts.
- Cooling Rack: Once baked, we transfer our loaf to this to cool evenly and maintain its texture – no soggy bottoms here.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread baking experience both efficient and enjoyable.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we can guide you through baking our delicious Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread. This process ensures a nutritious, honey-sweetened loaf with a soft interior and golden crust.
Prepare the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir gently until the yeast dissolves, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step activates the yeast, giving our dough the rise it needs for a light, airy texture.
Mix the Dough
Once the yeast is ready, add 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the bowl. Using a wooden spoon or stand mixer on low speed, stir the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough, incorporating all the ingredients evenly. This step is crucial for blending the wholesome whole wheat flour with the honey’s natural sweetness, creating a base that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Knead and First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes by hand, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for the same duration, until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough back in the bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size. During this rise, the dough develops its structure, enhancing the nutty flavors of the whole wheat for a satisfying loaf.
Shape the Loaves
After the first rise, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a standard loaf by rolling it into a rectangle and folding the sides in, then rolling it up tightly. Place the shaped loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, seam side down. This technique ensures even baking and a professional look to our honey-infused bread.
Second Rise and Bake
Cover the loaf pan loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes in a warm area until it crowns above the pan edge. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once risen, bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F as checked with an instant-read thermometer—the crust should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. For optimal results, here’s a quick overview of baking times and yields:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Bake Time | 30-35 minutes |
| Internal Temp | 190°F |
| Yield | 1 loaf (about 12 slices) |
This second rise maximizes the bread’s volume and honey-sweetened aroma.
Cool the Bread
Remove the baked loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing. Cooling properly prevents sogginess and allows the flavors to settle, ensuring each slice of our Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread is perfect for toasting or sandwiches.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend these make-ahead strategies. These methods allow you to prepare the dough or loaf in advance while preserving its wholesome flavor and nutty texture. By planning ahead, you can enjoy freshly baked bread with minimal effort on the day you need it.
Preparing Dough in Advance
One of the easiest ways to make ahead is to handle the dough preparation up to the first rise. This keeps the honey-infused whole wheat qualities intact for optimal results.
- Step 1: After mixing and kneading the dough as outlined in our baking instructions, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
- Step 2: Refrigerate the dough immediately. It can stay in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to develop further.
- Step 3: When ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 1 hour. This step ensures even rising and a golden-brown crust.
- Step 4: Proceed with the first rise at room temperature until the dough doubles in size, then shape and bake as normal.
Freezing Unbaked Dough
For longer storage, freezing the dough is a great option. This method maintains the nutty whole wheat essence without compromising quality.
- Step 1: After the first rise, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf as per the recipe.
- Step 2: Wrap the shaped dough tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Step 3: Freeze for up to 1 month. Note: Freezing halts yeast activity, so the dough won’t overproof.
- Step 4: To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Let it rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours until puffy, then bake as directed.
Freezing Baked Loaf
If you prefer to bake first and store, freezing a fully baked loaf ensures you have Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread ready for quick meals.
- Step 1: After baking and cooling the loaf completely on a rack, slice it if desired for easier portioning.
- Step 2: Wrap the loaf (or slices) in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Step 3: Freeze for up to 3 months to retain freshness and texture.
- Step 4: To serve, thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours or toast slices directly from frozen for a crispy exterior and soft interior.
| Make-Ahead Method | Storage Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Dough | Up to 24 hours | Let dough warm up fully before rising |
| Frozen Unbaked Dough | Up to 1 month | Thaw slowly in fridge |
| Frozen Baked Loaf | Up to 3 months | Toast for best texture |
Conclusion
We’ve shared how baking Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread brings fresh, nutritious goodness to your table. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a simple way to enjoy wholesome flavors that elevate meals and snacks.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll find joy in this easy bake, whether for family gatherings or quick toasts. Give it a try and make it part of your routine for that bakery-fresh taste every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread?
Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread is a wholesome, bakery-style loaf featuring a blend of whole wheat flour and honey for a naturally sweet, nutty flavor. It’s praised for its nutritional value, making it ideal for family meals, sandwiches, or toasting. This recipe delivers fresh, homemade goodness that enhances everyday dining.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need warm water, active dry yeast, honey, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and vegetable oil or melted butter. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. This combination creates a delicious, nutritious loaf yielding about 12 slices, emphasizing whole grains and natural sweetness.
What equipment is required to bake this bread?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a kitchen scale, a stand mixer or wooden spoon, a loaf pan, an instant-read thermometer, and a cooling rack. These items ensure accurate preparation and even baking for a perfect loaf every time.
How do I make Great Harvest Honey Whole Wheat Bread?
Start by activating yeast with warm water, honey, and a bit of flour. Mix in remaining flours, salt, and oil to form dough, then knead until smooth. Let it rise, shape into a loaf, and bake at the right temperature until golden and internal temp reaches 190°F. Cool before slicing for best texture.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours or freeze it unbaked for up to a month. This makes baking convenient for busy schedules. When ready, thaw and let it rise before baking to maintain fresh flavor and texture.
How should I store the baked bread?
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the whole loaf or slices for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature to preserve its moist, nutty texture.
What are the nutritional benefits of this bread?
This bread offers whole grain goodness from wheat flour, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Honey adds natural sweetness without refined sugars, making it a healthier option for energy and digestion. It’s perfect for balanced meals, supporting overall wellness with every slice.