This no-knead, vegan whole wheat bread recipe is incredibly easy to make and much less messy than traditional bread. If you’re intimidated by the thought of baking homemade bread, this recipe is the perfect way to get started. This easy bread recipe is made without a Dutch oven and is formed in a regular loaf pan instead. This flavorful, vegan whole grain bread turned out soft and fluffy. It’s perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Main ingredients and substitutions
Whole wheat flour gives this hearty bread a warm, earthy flavor. You can use regular whole wheat flour or sprouted whole wheat flour if you prefer.
Active dry yeast is what makes this vegan bread rise and also adds flavor. Be sure that your yeast isn’t too old or it won’t activate properly. Once the package has been opened, active dry yeast should last for four months in the fridge or six months in the freezer.
A small amount of maple syrup helps feed the yeast in this vegan bread recipe. You can substitute agave or sugar if you prefer.
Warm water is necessary to activate the yeast in this no-knead whole wheat bread. You can use a thermometer to ensure the water is between 110 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit or you can just test a few drops on your wrist to make sure it feels warm but not hot.
How to make it
Start by adding the whole wheat flour, active dry yeast, and salt to a large mixing bowl, then mix well.
Add the warm water and maple syrup, then use a spoon to mix until a wet, sticky dough is formed (this just takes a minute or two).
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a plate, then leave it at room temperature to rise for 90 minutes. After 90 minutes the dough should have doubled in size.
After the dough has finished rising, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then use a spoon to transfer the dough to a medium sized loaf pan (mine is 9.25 x 5.25 x 2.75 inches) lined with parchment paper. Don’t stir, knead, or punch down the dough – simply transfer it to the loaf pan.
Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes or until the top of the loaf is a deep golden brown color.
Let the bread cool off for at least one hour before slicing and serving.
Storage
Store the bread at room temperature in a resealable plastic bag, airtight container, or bread bag for up to three days or freeze it for up to six months.
Optional addition
To add an extra layer of flavor to this bread, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the loaf before baking.
More bread recipes to try
- This high fiber flourless bread is quick and easy to make.
- This coconut flour banana bread is gluten free, dairy free, and paleo diet friendly.
Vegan Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Medium sized loaf pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (between 110 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Or just test it on your wrist to make sure it feels warm but not hot.)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Add the whole wheat flour, active dry yeast, and salt to a large mixing bowl, then mix well.
- Add the warm water and maple syrup, then use a spoon to mix until a sticky, wet dough is formed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a plate, then leave it at room temperature to rise for 90 minutes.
- When the dough has finished rising, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use a spoon to transfer the bread dough into a parchment paper lined medium sized loaf pan (mine is 9.25 x 5.25 x 2.75 inches). Do not stir, knead, or punch the dough down – simply transfer it to the loaf pan.
- Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes or until the top of the loaf is a deep golden brown color.
- Allow the bread to cool off for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
- Store the bread at room temperature in a resealable plastic bag, airtight container, or bread bag for up to three days, or freeze it for up to six months.
- To add an extra layer of flavor to this bread, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the loaf before baking.
My husband and I loved it!! I wish it would have raised a little more though. Followed recipe exactly and had great flavor!
Thanks for the feedback and glad you both enjoyed it!