The King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe is a wholesome, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for everyday baking.
Made with King Arthur’s Premium 100% Whole Wheat Flour, this recipe delivers a soft, hearty bread with a rich, nutty flavor.
This King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe combination of whole wheat flour, honey, and a touch of vegetable oil creates a balanced loaf that’s both nutritious and delicious.
With optional vital wheat gluten to improve texture and nonfat dried milk for added richness, this bread is a great choice for anyone looking to bake a healthier alternative to white bread.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, the step-by-step instructions, and everything you need to know to make the best King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe.
I’ll also share a few personal tips I’ve picked up along the way, so you can make your bread just the way you like it!
What Is So Special About King Arthur Flour?
King Arthur Flour is renowned for its high-quality, consistent results. Made from 100% American-grown wheat, it’s milled to maintain optimal protein content, giving doughs and batters perfect texture and structure.
Their products are non-GMO, and the brand is dedicated to sustainability and supporting bakers with helpful resources, making it a favorite for both professionals and home bakers alike.
How To Prepare King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours (including rising time)
Course: Bread
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
Kitchen Utensils
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
- Loaf pan (9 x 5 inches)
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups King Arthur Premium 100% Whole Wheat Flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon vital wheat gluten (optional)
- ¼ cup nonfat dried milk
How to Make King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe
1. Activate yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, salt, dried milk, and vital wheat gluten (if using).
3. Combine: Add the yeast mixture and oil to the dry ingredients. Stir to form a dough.
4. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth.
5. First rise: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled.
6. Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan. Let rise for 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool: Remove from the pan and cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy!
Notes
Storage: To keep your bread fresh, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, slice and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Altitude Adjustments: If you live at a high altitude, you may need to make slight adjustments to the liquid amount or rising time. Reduce the yeast slightly to avoid over-proofing.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving (1 Slice)
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Great Serving Ideas For King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe
1. Classic Avocado Toast:
Spread mashed avocado on a slice of toasted whole wheat bread, and top with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a poached egg for extra protein.
2. Grilled Cheese:
Use your whole wheat bread for a healthier twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Pair with your favorite cheese and grill until golden and crispy.
3. Peanut Butter & Banana:
Spread peanut butter on a slice of whole wheat bread and top with banana slices for a satisfying, nutrient-rich snack.
4. Hummus & Veggies:
Spread hummus on a slice of toasted bread, then top with cucumber, tomato, and a handful of leafy greens for a fresh and filling snack or lunch.
5. Turkey or Chicken Sandwich:
Layer slices of whole wheat bread with lean turkey or chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, and a light spread of mustard or mayo for a nutritious, protein-packed sandwich.
Is 100% Whole Wheat Bread Healthy?
Yes, 100% whole wheat bread is considered healthier than white bread because it retains all parts of the grain—the bran, germ, and endosperm—providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The higher fiber content aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports heart health. However, it’s important to check for added sugars or preservatives in store-bought versions for the best health benefits.
Does 100% Whole Wheat Bread Turn To Sugar?
Yes, like all carbohydrates, the sugars in 100% whole wheat bread eventually break down into glucose (sugar) in your body during digestion.
However, because whole wheat bread contains more fiber and nutrients compared to refined white bread, it leads to a slower and more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.
This makes it a healthier option, particularly for maintaining stable energy levels and supporting heart health. The fiber also helps with satiety and digestive health.
Is It Okay To Eat Wheat Bread Every Day?
Yes, it’s generally okay to eat whole wheat bread every day, especially if it’s part of a balanced diet. Whole wheat bread provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can support digestion, heart health, and overall nutrition.
However, moderation is key. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake or carb consumption.
It’s also important to balance your diet with a variety of other whole foods like vegetables, fruits, proteins, and healthy fats.
If you have specific health conditions, like gluten sensitivity or diabetes, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best options for your needs.
Conclusion
The King Arthur Whole Wheat Bread recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to bake a nutritious, flavorful loaf at home.
With simple ingredients like whole wheat flour, honey, and a touch of vital wheat gluten, it offers a wholesome alternative to store-bought bread.
Not only is it easy to make, but it also provides the benefits of fiber and essential nutrients, making it a healthier option for everyday meals.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich, this homemade King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering both taste and nutrition in every slice.
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King Arthur Wheat Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
- Loaf pan (9 x 5 inches)
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups King Arthur Premium 100% Whole Wheat Flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast or 2 ¼ teaspoons
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 ¼ cups warm water about 110°F
- 1 tablespoon vital wheat gluten optional
- ¼ cup nonfat dried milk
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, salt, dried milk, and vital wheat gluten (if using).
- Combine: Add the yeast mixture and oil to the dry ingredients. Stir to form a dough.
- Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth.
- First rise: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, until doubled.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan. Let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove from the pan and cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy!