Hearty Multigrain Bread 🍞🌾

This hearty multigrain bread is perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite soup! It's filled with wholesome grains and offers a lovely nutty flavor that everyone will enjoy. Baking your own bread is not only satisfying but also allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier option. Pair it with some rich butter or your favorite spread for a delicious snack! 🥖✨

Ingredients

For a 1.5 Pound Loaf

• 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons softened margarine or butter
• 1 and 1/3 cups bread flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup 7-grain cereal
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 and 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons yeast

For a 2 Pound Loaf

• 1 and 1/4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons softened margarine or butter
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 and 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
• 3/4 cup 7-grain cereal
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 and 3/4 teaspoons yeast

Instructions

1. Measure and add the liquid ingredients (water and softened margarine or butter) to the bread pan.
2. Measure and add the dry ingredients (bread flour, whole wheat flour, 7-grain cereal, brown sugar, and salt) to the bread pan, taking care not to mix them yet.

📏 A digital scale can be very helpful for precise measurements, especially for baking bread where ratios matter!

3. Use your finger to create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the yeast into this well. Be careful that the yeast does not come into contact with the liquid ingredients until you're ready to bake.
4. Insert the baking pan into the bread machine, ensuring it is seated correctly to ensure proper mixing and baking.
5. Press the "Crust Color" button to select the whole wheat setting for a beautifully baked crust.
6. Press the "Start/Stop" button to begin the baking process.

⏳ Bread machines can vary in settings and times, so keep an eye on it the first time to get familiar with your machine.

Tips for Perfect Bread

• Storage: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Store in a bread box or wrapped in a cloth to keep it fresh for longer.
• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in seeds (like sunflower or sesame) or nuts for added texture and flavor. You can add about 1/2 cup of your favorites.
• Bread crumbs: If you have leftover bread, it can be turned into breadcrumbs for coatings or stuffing!

Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute the bread flour and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to add xanthan gum for structure.
• Flavorful additions: Incorporate dried herbs or spices (such as rosemary or cinnamon) to give your bread a unique twist.
• Sweet touch: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet and healthy breakfast option!

Unleash your inner baker with this nutritious loaf that'll impress your friends and family! 🍞💕