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Honey Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread: The Wholesome Loaf Your Kitchen Has Been Missing
In an era of artisanal sourdoughs and elaborate pastry, sometimes what we crave most is the simple perfection of a reliable, soft, slightly sweet sandwich bread. This Honey Whole Wheat recipe represents the gold standard of homemade loaves – the kind that fills your home with that irresistible baking aroma and delivers consistent results every time.
Why This Bread Stands Apart
Unlike dense, store-bought whole wheat bread that can taste like cardboard, this recipe achieves something extraordinary:
- The Texture Paradox
Whole wheat flour is notorious for producing heavy loaves, but we’ve solved this through:
- Strategic use of bread flour (25% of total flour) for better gluten development
- Honey’s hygroscopic properties that retain moisture for days
- Proper kneading technique to develop elasticity without toughness
- Flavor Harmony
The sweetness isn’t overpowering – just enough to:
- Balance whole wheat’s natural earthiness
- Complement both savory and sweet toppings
- Appeal to kids while still feeling wholesome
- Adaptable Nature
This loaf serves multiple roles in your kitchen:
✔ Breakfast superstar – makes incredible cinnamon toast
✔ Lunchbox hero – holds up better than white bread
✔ Dinner companion – perfect for artisan sandwiches
The Science Behind the Softness
After testing dozens of variations, we’ve identified the key factors for that bakery-soft texture:
Liquid Temperature Matters
- 110°F (43°C) is the sweet spot for yeast activation
- Too cold = sluggish rise
- Too hot = kills yeast
The Honey Advantage
Beyond sweetness, honey:
- Extends freshness by binding to water molecules
- Promotes browning for that perfect golden crust
- Feeds yeast for a more consistent rise
Milk’s Magic
The proteins and sugars in milk:
- Create a tender crumb
- Enhance browning
- Add nutritional value
A Loaf with History
This recipe modernizes traditional American whole wheat breads that settlers made with locally milled flour and wild honey. The combination reflects our culinary heritage:
• Whole wheat – from early colonial grain cultivation
• Honey – used before refined sugar was widely available
• Milk – representing small farm dairy traditions
Baker’s Pro Tips
- Flour Adjustments
- In humid climates, add 2 extra tbsp bread flour
- For 100% whole wheat, add 1 tbsp vital wheat gluten
- Customization Ideas
- Add ÂĽ cup sunflower seeds for crunch
- Swap honey for maple syrup for deeper flavor
- Mix in 1 tbsp flaxseed for extra nutrition
- Storage Secrets
- Keep sliced side down on cutting board for first 24 hours
- Freeze slices separated by parchment for easy toasting
Why Home Baking Wins
Commercial breads can’t compete because they:
âś– Use preservatives that alter taste
âś– Over-process the wheat germ
âś– Lack the personal touch of handmade shaping
When you bake this bread, you’re not just making food – you’re:
âś… Controlling ingredients
âś… Reducing packaging waste
âś… Creating edible memories
The process itself becomes therapeutic – the rhythmic kneading, the satisfaction of watching dough rise, the pride of pulling a perfect loaf from your own oven.
Ready to experience homemade bread that outshines anything from the store? Your mixer (and your family) are waiting.
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The perfect everyday loaf – soft, slightly sweet, and packed with wholesome goodness. Makes heavenly toast and sandwiches! ownthatcrown.com
Ingredients
- 3 cups (360g) whole wheat flour
- 1 cup (120g) bread flour (or all-purpose)
- 2ÂĽ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ÂĽ cup (60ml) warm water
- ÂĽ cup (85g) honey
- 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg (for egg wash – optional)
Instructions
- Mix dough:Â Combine flours, yeast, and salt in a stand mixer. Add milk, water, honey, and butter. Knead with dough hook 8-10 mins until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1-1½ hours until doubled.
- Shape:Â Punch down dough, shape into loaf, and place in greased 9Ă—5-inch pan.
- Second rise:Â Cover and rise 45-60 mins until cresting pan rim.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash (if using). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 mins until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Why This Recipe Works
- Honey adds subtle sweetness while keeping bread moist
- Bread flour gives better rise than all-purpose
- Milk creates tender crumb perfect for sandwiches
Tip: For softer crust, brush melted butter on top after baking.