Why You’ll Love This Flax Seed Bread Recipe
When you try this flax seed bread recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The nutty flavor of the flax seeds adds a delightful richness, and the blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour creates a perfect texture.
I love how easy it’s to make; the dough comes together in no time. Plus, the aroma that fills my home while it bakes is simply irresistible.
This bread not only tastes amazing, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Whether you slice it for breakfast or use it for sandwiches, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients of Flax Seed Bread
When it comes to baking bread, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference, and this Flax Seed Bread recipe is no exception. Packed with wholesome goodness, this bread combines a variety of flours and seeds to create a rich flavor and a delightful texture. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some nutrition without sacrificing taste.
So, let’s explore the ingredient list, and I promise, it’s not as intimidating as it might seem.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious loaf:
- 1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 (1/4 ounce) package dry yeast
- 1/2 cup flax seed (ground)
- 2 tablespoons whole flax seeds
- 3 tablespoons nonfat dry milk powder
- 2 tablespoons wheat bran (like All-bran)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons bread flour (for kneading)
- 2 teaspoons cornmeal (for sprinkling)
- 1 egg white (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon flax seed (for topping)
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, using both whole wheat and all-purpose flour gives you the best of both worlds—nutritional benefits and a light texture.
The flax seeds are like the superheroes of this bread, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Don’t worry if you don’t have a spice grinder; you can often find ground flaxseed at your local grocery store.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, go ahead and play around with the sweeteners. Honey and molasses bring a unique depth of flavor, but you can always substitute with agave or maple syrup if that’s what you have on hand.
Just remember, baking is as much about having fun as it’s about following the recipe. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to bake some magic!
How to Make Flax Seed Bread
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making Flax Seed Bread. First things first, grab yourself a medium bowl and add 1 cup of warm water. It should feel like a cozy bath, not a scalding hot tub! Sprinkle in 1 (1/4 ounce) package of dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets all frothy and bubbly—like a mini science experiment in your kitchen. It’s kind of mesmerizing, isn’t it?
Once the yeast is dancing, mix in 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir it well, cover the bowl with a cloth, and let it hang out at room temperature for an hour. This is the time to daydream about how amazing your bread will taste.
Meanwhile, get your flax seeds ready. You’ll need 1/2 cup of them, but first, put them in a spice or coffee grinder and process until they’re finely ground. This will give you about 3/4 cup of ground flax, which is a key player in giving your bread that nutty flavor and texture.
Now, back to our yeast mixture—after an hour, it’s time to introduce the star ingredients. Add the ground flax seed, 1 1/4 cups of whole wheat flour, 2 tablespoons of whole flax seeds, and the next five ingredients: 3 tablespoons of nonfat dry milk powder, 2 tablespoons of wheat bran, 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Stir it all together until a soft, tacky dough forms. Don’t be surprised if it feels a bit sticky; that’s just how it rolls. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead it for about 5 minutes. If it sticks to your hands, sprinkle in some of the remaining 3 tablespoons of bread flour, little by little, until it’s manageable.
Once the dough is smooth and elastic, shape it into a lovely round loaf, about 5 inches wide. Place it on a baking sheet that you’ve generously coated with cooking spray and sprinkled with 2 teaspoons of cornmeal (because, let’s face it, cornmeal adds a nice crunch).
Brush the top with 1 egg white for that beautiful golden crust, and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flax seeds on top like a finishing touch. Make three diagonal cuts across the top with a sharp knife—this isn’t just for show; it helps the bread rise beautifully.
Cover the loaf and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size. Trust me, watching dough rise is oddly satisfying.
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake that glorious loaf for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it sounds hollow when tapped—like a drum!
Let it cool on a wire rack, and try not to eat the whole loaf in one sitting. But hey, no judgment here; we all have our moments. Enjoy your homemade Flax Seed Bread, and feel a little bit like a kitchen wizard. Happy baking!
Flax Seed Bread Substitutions & Variations
Have you ever thought about how you could tweak your flax seed bread recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs?
One simple substitution is swapping whole wheat flour for spelt or almond flour for a gluten-free option. If you want to add sweetness, consider using maple syrup instead of honey.
For a nuttier flavor, try adding sunflower seeds or walnuts. You can even replace the water with almond milk for a creamier texture.
Additionally, experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!
Additional Tips & Notes
Exploring substitutions and variations can enhance your flax seed bread experience, but there are also some handy tips to contemplate for perfecting your loaf.
First, verify your yeast is fresh for peak rise. If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider adding more honey or using maple syrup.
For a nuttier flavor, experiment with different seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Don’t skip the egg white wash; it gives the crust a lovely sheen.
Finally, allow your bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its texture. Trust me, these little details make a big difference in your baking journey!