Amish Soft Honey Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

Ingredients for Amish Soft Honey Whole Wheat Bread

• Warm Water
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• Eggs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup Crisco shortening
• 1 tablespoon salt
• Whole Wheat Flour
• Wheat Gluten

How to Make Amish Soft Honey Whole Wheat Bread

1. Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (105-115°F), 2 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Let stand until foamy (about 5-10 minutes).
2. Warm eggs: While yeast activates, place 3 large eggs in a bowl of warm water (about 100-110°F) for 5 minutes to temper them.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 4 cups whole wheat flour, 1 tablespoon salt, and 2 tablespoons vital wheat gluten.
4. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until just combined. Add the tempered eggs, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/2 cup Crisco shortening. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Knead the dough: Gradually add more whole wheat flour, about 1-2 cups, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Knead with the dough hook of a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes, or knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 10-12 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the loaves: Gently punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place in greased loaf pans.
8. Second rise: Cover the loaves and let rise again in a warm place for another 45-60 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
9. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
10. Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.