Seeded Whole Wheat Bread

This hearty whole wheat bread is loaded with toasted seeds for extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. With a chewy crumb, crisp crust, and nutty topping, it’s the perfect loaf for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• ½ cup (70 g) mixed seeds (flax, sunflower, sesame, etc.)
• 2 ¾ cups (330 g) whole wheat flour
• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour (see note)
• 1 Tbsp (9 g) kosher salt
• 1 Tbsp instant yeast
• 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) hot water (105–115°F)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing)
• 1 Tbsp honey

For the Topping

• 1 large egg
• 1 Tbsp water
• ¼ cup (35 g) mixed seeds

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Instructions

1. Toast the seeds

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the ½ cup of seeds on a baking sheet in an even layer. Toast for 5–10 minutes, stirring once, until golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye after 5 minutes so they don’t burn. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, toasted seeds, salt, and yeast.

3. Add the wet ingredients

Pour in the hot water, olive oil, and honey. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

4. Knead the dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough will start sticky but will become more manageable as you knead—avoid adding too much flour.

5. First rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the dough

Grease a loaf pan with olive oil. On a lightly floured surface, gently press the dough into a square the width of your loaf pan. Roll into a log, pinching the seam to seal, then place seam-side down in the pan.

7. Add the seed topping

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash, then sprinkle evenly with the remaining ¼ cup of seeds.

8. Proof the dough

Cover the loaf loosely and let it rise for 30–60 minutes, until the dough reaches the rim of a 9×5-inch loaf pan (or 1 inch above the rim of a smaller pan). Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the loaf is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

10. Cool

Remove the loaf from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing for the best texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutty, hearty flavor from toasted seeds
• Perfect balance of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for structure and softness
• Packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients
• Stays fresh for several days and freezes beautifully
• Great for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to soups and salads

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Tips

• Don’t skip toasting the seeds—it deepens their flavor.
• Knead until the dough passes the “windowpane test” (stretches thin without tearing).
• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements and consistent results.
• Let the bread cool fully before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.
• Store in a bread box or airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different seeds: Try pumpkin, poppy, or chia seeds.
• Flour swap: Use only whole wheat flour for a denser loaf, or substitute some with rye flour for an earthy flavor.
• Sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
• Oil: Swap olive oil with melted butter or avocado oil.
• Topping: Instead of seeds, sprinkle with oats for a rustic look.

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FAQs

Can I make this bread without all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the loaf will be denser. Using a mix gives a lighter, softer crumb.

Do I need a stand mixer to knead?
No, kneading by hand works perfectly—just give it time.

Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from frozen.

Why is my bread dense?
This usually happens if the dough didn’t rise long enough, the yeast was inactive, or too much flour was added during kneading.

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Serving Suggestions

• Slice and toast with butter, jam, or nut butter.
• Use for hearty sandwiches with meats, cheeses, or roasted veggies.
• Serve alongside soups, stews, or salads.
• Cube and toast for homemade croutons.
• Spread with avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a healthy snack.