Vegan Wheat Bread Recipe – Delicious Snack With Nutty Flavor

Don’t have time to read the full blog post? JUMP TO THE RECIPE HERE!

Finding the right vegan wheat bread recipe can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Amid countless options, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, especially when striving for that perfect blend of taste and texture without compromising your vegan principles. 

I’ve been there, flipping through recipes that fell flat or strayed too far from my dietary choices. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands. My journey led me to develop a recipe that meets vegan standards and delights with its hearty, wholesome goodness. 

This vegan wheat bread recipe is my go-to solution for anyone looking to enjoy homemade bread that’s both delicious and ethically sound. It’s a testament to how persistence and the right ingredients can transform your baking experience.

What Is Vegan Wheat Bread? 

Vegan wheat bread is made exclusively from plant-based ingredients, avoiding animal products such as dairy, eggs, or honey, commonly found in traditional bread recipes. 

This bread utilizes whole wheat flour as its main component, offering a rich source of fiber and nutrients. The absence of animal products makes it suitable for vegans and those with specific dietary restrictions. Vegan wheat bread is characterized by its dense texture and nutty flavor, making it a versatile staple for various meals and snacks.

Fact– Vegan wheat bread supports animal welfare and environmental sustainability. It also provides essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enhancing overall health and well-being.

Recipe Directions

1. Begin by adding the whole wheat flour to a large mixing bowl. Incorporate the active dry yeast and salt, mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly.
2. In a separate container, dissolve the maple syrup into the warm water. This mixture will act as a natural sweetener and help to activate the yeast.
3. Pour the maple syrup and water mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix the contents gently until you achieve a sticky, well-combined dough. Remember, there’s no need to knead the dough vigorously.
4. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan lightly. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for extra protection against sticking.
5. Transfer the dough to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
6. Cover the pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel and set it aside in a warm, draft-free area. Allow the dough to rise for about 20 minutes.
7. While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking.
8. After the dough has risen and filled the pan more, place it in the oven. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. This bread is exceptionally delicious when fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. After that, it makes excellent toast. 

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Whole Grains and Seeds: For added texture and nutrients, incorporate oats, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds into the dough.
• Herb-Infused: For a flavorful twist, mix in dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Sweet Version: For a sweet treat, add cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, or dried cranberries to the dough.

Add-Ons

• Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans to add crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
• Olives and Sundried Tomatoes: Mix in chopped olives and sundried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Vegan Cheese: Incorporate grated vegan cheese into the dough for a cheesy, savory bread.

Toppings

• Avocado Spread: Top slices of the bread with mashed avocado, salt, and pepper for a simple, nutritious snack.
• Hummus: Spread hummus on the bread and garnish with cucumber slices or sprouts for a quick, healthy meal.
• Nut Butter and Fruit: Slather almond or peanut butter on the bread and top with banana slices or berries for a sweet and satisfying breakfast or snack.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Mushrooms: Great for replacing meat due to their umami flavor and meaty texture, especially portobellos for burgers or shiitake in Asian dishes.
• Lentils: Ideal for mimicking ground meat in sauces, tacos, or meatloaves, offering a hearty, protein-rich base.
• Cauliflower: A versatile choice that can substitute for meats, rice, or even pizza crust, known for its ability to absorb flavors well.
• Jackfruit: Its texture resembles pulled pork or chicken, perfect for vegan barbecue dishes or tacos.
• Eggplant: Its meaty texture makes it a good stand-in for meat in lasagna, moussaka, or as a burger patty.
• Chickpeas: Can replace chicken or tuna in salads and sandwiches, providing a satisfying, protein-packed option.
• Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness and texture make them an excellent base for vegan burgers or as a filling substitute in enchiladas or burritos.

Quick Tip – Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your plant-based milk for a richer flavor in vegan baking. This creates homemade buttermilk, enhancing moisture and taste.

Best Side Dishes

1. Tomato Basil Soup A classic, creamy soup that’s comforting and pairs beautifully with the hearty texture of wheat bread.
2. Roasted Vegetable Salad Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection, dressed with a light vinaigrette, offer a healthy and flavorful side.
3. Hummus A creamy, savory spread made from chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice, hummus complements the nutty flavor of wheat bread.
4. Avocado Salad A refreshing mix of avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Lentil Stew A robust and hearty stew, rich in protein and flavors, making a satisfying accompaniment.
6. Grilled Asparagus Lightly grilled asparagus seasoned with garlic and olive oil adds a crunchy, nutritious side.
7. Vegan Cheese Platter This platter includes a selection of vegan cheeses, nuts, and fruits, ideal for snacking alongside slices of wheat bread.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers Bell peppers are filled with a spicy mix of quinoa, beans, and vegetables and baked until tender.
9. Sweet Potato Fries Oven-baked sweet potato fries seasoned with herbs make a sweet and savory side dish.
10. Kale Chips Crispy, baked kale chips seasoned with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

How To Serve?

• Toasted with Avocado: Slice and toast the bread until golden, then top with mashed avocado, salt, and pepper for a classic breakfast or snack.
• Open-Faced Sandwiches: For a light lunch, use the bread as a base for open-faced sandwiches, layering on hummus, sliced vegetables, and sprouts.
• Bruschetta: For a flavorful appetizer, top slices of toasted wheat bread with a mixture of chopped tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
• Soup Companion: Serve alongside your favorite soups and stews, perfect for dipping and soaking up delicious flavors.
• Vegan Cheese and Fruit Platter: Serve this platter with a selection of vegan cheeses, fresh fruits, and nuts for a sophisticated snack or dessert.
• French Toast: Dip in a mixture of plant-based milk, flour, cinnamon, and vanilla, then pan-fry until crispy for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Croutons: Cube the bread, toss with olive oil and herbs, and bake until crispy for a crunchy salad topping or soup garnish.
• Garlic Bread: Spread slices with vegan butter, minced garlic, and herbs, then bake until golden for a savory side dish.
• Peanut Butter and Jelly: A classic combination, simply spread with your favorite peanut butter and jelly for a quick and satisfying snack.
• Stuffed Bread: Hollow out the bread and fill with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, vegan cheese, and beans, then bake until warm and melty.

Quick Tip – To keep homemade vegan wheat bread fresh longer, wrap it tightly in a clean cloth and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool entirely before storing it to prevent moisture buildup.
• Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Refrigerate for Longevity: For longer storage, refrigerate the bread; it will last up to a week.
• Freeze: Slice before freezing and store in freezer-safe bags. Bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw Properly: Thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.
• Make Ahead: Bake and freeze the bread in slices. This allows you to enjoy fresh, homemade bread anytime without starting from scratch.
• Refresh in Oven: Warm the bread in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to revive it.

Fact – Ancient Egyptians are credited with inventing yeast-leavened bread around 4,000 years ago, laying the groundwork for modern baking techniques, including vegan wheat bread.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead Of Whole Wheat Flour In This Vegan Wheat Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour, but it will affect the bread’s nutritional content, texture, and flavor. Whole wheat flour provides more fiber and a nuttier, denser texture.

If you substitute all-purpose flour, start with a 1:1 ratio, but be aware that the dough might require slightly less water, as all-purpose flour tends to absorb less liquid.

Why Didn’t My Vegan Wheat Bread Rise?

There could be several reasons why your bread didn’t rise. The yeast might have been too old or expired, which means it’s no longer active and can’t produce the gases needed for the dough to rise. The water temperature could also be a factor;

if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, it won’t activate it. Finally, ensure the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free area during the rising time, as cold temperatures can slow the yeast activity.

Can I Make This Bread Without Maple Syrup?

Yes, you can make this bread without maple syrup. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that helps activate the yeast. Substitute it with other sweeteners like agave syrup, honey (if you’re not strictly vegan), or even sugar.

The sweetener helps balance the flavors and supports yeast fermentation, so it’s recommended to include it in some form.

How Do I Store Vegan Wheat Bread, And How Long Will It Last?

To store vegan wheat bread, wait until it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or a reusable bread bag. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw slices as needed, either at room temperature or by toasting them directly from the freezer.

Is This Bread Recipe Suitable For People With Celiac Disease Or Gluten Intolerance?

No, this recipe is unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance because it uses whole wheat flour containing gluten. For a gluten-free version, you must use a gluten-free flour blend for baking bread.

Remember that gluten-free flours have different properties, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid and include a binder like xanthan gum to achieve the right texture.