Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s a wholesome treat that’s also bursting with fruity goodness. This Whole Wheat Fruit Bread recipe is the perfect addition to your baking repertoire – simple, comforting, and ready to fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Packed with nutritious ingredients and a touch of sweetness from dried fruits, this bread is ideal for breakfasts, snacks, or even a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Let’s get ready to bake up a delightful loaf that will have everyone coming back for more!
Whole Wheat Fruit Bread Easy Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (7g) instant dry yeast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, like walnuts or almonds)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and instant dry yeast. Mix well to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
2. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the warm water, honey, olive oil, and salt. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything together until a sticky dough forms.
3. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a bit more flour as needed.
4. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
6. Punch down the risen dough and gently knead in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts, if using. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes. The dough should puff up slightly during this time.
8. Bake the Whole Wheat Fruit Bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy a slice of this delightful bread warm with a smear of butter or jam, or allow it to cool completely for easy slicing and storage.
This Whole Wheat Fruit Bread is a delightful treat that combines the goodness of whole grains with the sweetness of dried fruits, making it a perfect choice for a cozy morning or an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize the dried fruits and nuts to suit your preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations for a unique twist each time you bake this bread. Share the love by gifting a loaf to someone special or serve it up during family gatherings for a touch of homemade warmth. Happy baking!
