Go Back
Darcy's Whole Wheat Bread fresh out of the oven, showcasing its soft texture and rich color.

Darcy's Whole Wheat Bread

A delightful whole wheat bread recipe that offers a comforting flavor, perfect for family meals and sandwiches.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 5 loaves
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 15-17 cups wheat flour About 80 ounces, provides earthiness.
  • 2 tablespoons instant yeast Gives rise and airy texture.
  • 1/2 cup vital wheat gluten Enhances chewiness.
  • 1000 mg Vitamin C (or 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar) Strengthens the dough.
  • 2 tablespoons salt Enhances flavor and controls fermentation.
Wet Ingredients
  • 6 1/2 cups very warm water Essential for activating yeast.
  • 2/3 cup oil Makes the bread moist.
  • 2/3 cup honey or sugar Balances the nuttiness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine 5 cups of wheat flour, yeast, vital wheat gluten, and Vitamin C (or lemon juice/vinegar). Mix thoroughly.
  2. Gradually add 6 1/2 cups of very warm water, stirring until combined.
  3. Incorporate 2/3 cup of oil and 2/3 cup of honey (or sugar), stirring until evenly mixed.
  4. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let sit for about 10 minutes.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of salt to the dough, mixing until fully incorporated.
  6. Gradually add remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  7. Knead the dough for about 7 minutes in a stand mixer or 15 minutes by hand.
  8. Divide the dough into 5 loaves and place into greased pans.
Baking
  1. Cover the pans and let rise until 2 inches above the pans, about 30-60 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for about 32 minutes, until golden.

Notes

Adjust water based on flour type; ensure yeast is fresh for best results. Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for variations.