Description
This Maple Walnut Multigrain Bread is a warm, nutty, and lightly sweet loaf made with real maple syrup and crunchy walnuts. Crafted from wholesome whole grains including whole wheat flour and oats, it offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Ideal for breakfast toast, hearty sandwiches, or simply enjoyed warm with butter, this bread combines traditional baking techniques with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying homemade treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1½ cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1½ tsp salt
Optional Topping
- Chopped walnuts or oats
- Maple glaze (1 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tbsp warm water)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and maple syrup. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated and ready.
- Add Fat: Stir in olive oil or melted butter to the yeast mixture to add moisture and richness to the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add whole wheat flour, bread flour (or all-purpose flour), rolled oats, chopped walnuts, and salt into the bowl.
- Mix and Knead Dough: Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for structure.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, until it doubles in size.
- Punch and Shape: Punch down the risen dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan for the second rise.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes until it has puffed up noticeably.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Apply Toppings: Brush the top of the dough with the maple glaze, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts or oats if desired to add texture and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped at the bottom, indicating it’s fully baked.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to preserve texture and flavor.
Notes
- Toast walnuts lightly before adding to the dough for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Honey can be used as a substitution for maple syrup if preferred.
- This bread freezes well for up to 2 months; slice before freezing for easy use.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Artisan