If you love the hearty, wholesome taste of Dave’s Killer Bread but want to make it fresh at home, we’ve got you covered. This bread machine recipe brings all the bold flavors and wholesome ingredients right to your kitchen, making it easy to enjoy that signature texture and nutrition without leaving the house.
Ingredients
To craft Dave’s Killer Bread perfectly in our bread machine, we rely on a blend of high-quality Ingredients that balance nutrition and flavor. Below is a breakdown of the essentials to achieve that iconic hearty texture and bold taste.
Dry Ingredients
We start by gathering the dry components that provide structure and wholesome goodness:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour – the base for that dense, nutty flavor
- 1 cup bread flour – adds strength and elasticity for a perfect crumb
- 1/2 cup rolled oats – contributes to texture and wholesome nutrition
- 1/4 cup wheat bran – boost of fiber essential for that signature Dave’s crunch
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed – adds omega-3s and a subtle nutty taste
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – the leavening agent that brings the bread to life
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt – enhances flavor, balancing all sweet and savory notes
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – offers a mellow sweetness that complements the whole grains
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients hydrate and bind the loaf together while enriching the flavor profile:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Warm water | 1 1/4 cups (110°F) |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey or maple syrup | 2 tablespoons |
Optional Add-Ins
We can elevate the Dave’s Killer Bread machine recipe by adding these flavorful and nutritious extras:
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans – for a crunchy, earthy element
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins – adds bursts of natural sweetness
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds – enhances texture and adds subtle nuttiness
Adding these optional mix-ins perfectly mimics the complexity and variety found in the original Dave’s Killer Bread loaves.
Equipment Needed
To create our Dave’s Killer Bread Recipe Bread Machine loaf perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. We’ll cover the key tools to ensure a smooth baking experience and excellent results.
Bread Machine Requirements
Our Dave’s Killer Bread recipe is designed specifically for a bread machine that can handle dense whole grain doughs. Here is what our bread machine must include:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loaf Size Capacity | At least 2 pounds (900 grams) |
| Kneading Paddle | Strong durable paddle suitable for heavy, seedy doughs |
| Program Settings | Whole wheat or multigrain program with longer kneading |
| Power and Temperature | Consistent power and accurate temperature control |
| Delay Timer (Optional) | Allows scheduling the bake ahead and fresh bread anytime |
These features help us achieve the signature dense texture and nutty flavor typical of Dave’s Killer Bread. Using a machine without these could result in under-kneaded or poorly risen bread.
Additional Tools
Alongside our bread machine, we recommend preparing these additional tools to improve the baking process and outcome:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurement for all ingredients ensures consistent dough consistency.
- Digital Kitchen Scale: For accuracy, especially with whole wheat flours and seeds, weighing ingredients is ideal.
- Rubber Spatula or Dough Scraper: Helps incorporate ingredients into the paddle and ensures no dough is left stuck.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for allowing the bread to cool evenly and maintain crust crispness after baking.
- Bread Knife: Serrated knife for slicing the loaf cleanly without crushing the airy crumb.
Having this equipment readily at hand sets us up for baking success with our Dave’s Killer Bread Recipe Bread Machine method.
Preparation
Precise Preparation is crucial to achieving the authentic Dave’s Killer Bread texture and flavor with our bread machine. Let’s break down the steps to ensure everything is ready for perfect baking results.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurement of ingredients is essential for this robust whole grain loaf. We recommend using a digital kitchen scale for best precision, especially with flours and seeds. Here’s how we measure:
| Ingredient | Measurement Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole wheat flour | Weigh in grams or cups | Level off with a knife for cup measurements |
| Bread flour | Weigh in grams or cups | Use fresh for better gluten structure |
| Rolled oats | Use measuring cups | Lightly pack without shaking |
| Wheat bran | Use measuring spoons | Spoon into measuring spoon for accuracy |
| Ground flaxseed | Use measuring spoons | Freshly ground for optimal flavor |
| Active dry yeast | Use measuring teaspoons | Confirm expiration date for peak activity |
| Fine sea salt | Use measuring teaspoons | Essential for flavor balance |
| Brown sugar | Use measuring tablespoons | Pack firmly to get correct sweetness |
| Warm water | Use liquid measuring cup | Temperature between 105°F-115°F for yeast |
| Vegetable oil | Use liquid measuring spoons | Fresh oil preserves bread’s moistness |
| Honey or maple syrup | Use liquid measuring tablespoons | Adds subtle sweetness and crust color |
Tip: Layer ingredients as per the bread machine’s instruction manual to prevent premature yeast activation.
Preparing the Bread Machine
For our Dave’s Killer Bread recipe bread machine preparation, follow these steps to set up:
- Clean the bread pan and kneading paddle thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Add liquid ingredients first—warm water, vegetable oil, honey or maple syrup. This helps the yeast activate properly.
- Add dry ingredients in the order specified: flours, oats, bran, flaxseed, sugar, salt.
- Make a small well on top of dry ingredients to place active dry yeast without it touching the liquids prematurely.
- Insert the bread pan into the machine and lock securely.
- Select the whole wheat or multigrain program setting on the machine for optimal kneading and rising times.
- Choose the crust color preference, typically medium for this hearty bread.
- Set the loaf size to 2 pounds or as close as possible to handle the dense dough.
- Optional: Use the delay timer if you want dough ready to bake later in the day.
Following these preparation steps ensures the bread machine works efficiently to develop the bold flavors and hearty crumb of our homemade Dave’s Killer Bread.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to create our Dave’s Killer Bread Recipe Bread Machine that yields a hearty loaf bursting with wholesome flavor.
Adding Ingredients to the Bread Machine
Start by layering the ingredients carefully into the bread machine pan to ensure proper mixing and rising:
- Pour warm water (110°F) into the pan first to activate the yeast effectively.
- Add honey or maple syrup and vegetable oil next to help bind the dough.
- Layer the dry ingredients in this order:
- Whole wheat flour
- Bread flour
- Rolled oats
- Wheat bran
- Ground flaxseed
- Brown sugar
- Fine sea salt
- Create a small well on the flour surface and add the active dry yeast inside, ensuring it does not touch the liquid.
- If using, add optional nuts, dried fruits, or seeds last on top of everything else.
Tip: Always add the ingredients in this order to prevent premature yeast activation and ensure even mixing throughout the dough stage.
Selecting the Settings
Set your bread machine to best suit the dense multigrain nature of this loaf:
| Setting | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Program | Whole Wheat or Multigrain Bread |
| Crust Color | Medium to Dark |
| Loaf Size | 2 pounds |
| Kneading Duration | Extended (if available) |
| Rise Cycles | Two rises preferred |
- Choose the Whole Wheat or Multigrain program to allow sufficient kneading and rising time for the heavy dough.
- Select a medium to dark crust setting to mimic the signature crust of the original Dave’s Killer Bread.
- Set the loaf size to 2 pounds to accommodate the quantity of ingredients.
- If your machine allows, extend the kneading cycle for better gluten development.
Baking Time and Temperature
The bread machine automatically controls baking, but knowing the specifics helps monitor progress:
| Process | Time Range | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Kneading | 25–35 minutes | Room temperature |
| First Rise | 45–60 minutes | Around 80°F |
| Second Rise | 30–45 minutes | Around 80°F |
| Baking | 40–50 minutes | 350°F (approx.) |
- The baking cycle typically lasts 40 to 50 minutes at approximately 350°F inside the bread machine.
- Let the bread machine complete the full baking process before opening the lid to avoid collapsing the loaf.
- Once baking finishes, carefully remove the pan and tip the bread onto a cooling rack.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing to maintain structure and texture.
By strictly following these directions we ensure our homemade Dave’s Killer Bread achieves that hearty crust, tender crumb, and bold flavor that stands out in every slice.
Tips for Perfect Bread Machine Results
Mastering the art of baking Dave’s Killer Bread in a bread machine requires attention to detail. Let’s explore how to nail the texture and avoid common pitfalls to bake a loaf that rivals the original.
How to Achieve the Right Texture
Achieving the iconic hearty crumb and crust of Dave’s Killer Bread means we need to focus on moisture balance, kneading quality, and ingredient temperature.
- Use precise measurements: Always weigh your ingredients with a digital scale. Excess flour can dry out the loaf while too much liquid makes it heavy and gummy.
- Layer ingredients correctly: Pour liquids first, then dry ingredients, with yeast on top in a little well. This order ensures proper activation and rise.
- Control temperature: Use warm water between 105°F and 115°F to activate yeast without killing it.
- Select the right program: Use the Whole Wheat or Multigrain setting to allow longer kneading and rising times for dense whole-grain doughs.
- Monitor kneading: The dough should form a slightly tacky smooth ball. If it seems too wet or dry during the cycle, add flour or water by the tablespoon.
- Allow full cool-down: Do not slice the bread until it has completely cooled on a rack. This sets the crumb and prevents a gummy texture.
| Factor | Ideal Condition | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Water temperature | 105°F – 115°F | Proper yeast activation |
| Dough consistency | Slightly tacky smooth ball | Even crumb with airy pockets |
| Kneading time/program | Whole Wheat/Multigrain setting | Optimal gluten development |
| Cooling time | At least 1 hour on a rack | Firm crumb and sliceable bread |
“The right texture comes from patience and precision. Rushing any step compromises the signature bite of Dave’s Killer Bread.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these frequent errors to save time and ensure your bread machine results meet the standard of this beloved recipe:
- Using too much yeast: Over-yeasting causes the loaf to rise too fast and then collapse.
- Placing yeast incorrectly: Mixing yeast with salt or wet ingredients prematurely kills the yeast’s activity.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Old or expired yeast and flour reduce rise and flavor.
- Skipping the bread machine’s recommended cycle: Using a quick or white bread cycle results in poor rise and dense crumb.
- Opening the lid during kneading or rising: Interrupting these cycles causes uneven texture and weak rise.
- Not adjusting for altitude or humidity: Flour and liquid ratios may need slight tweaks based on environment.
- Removing bread too soon: Cutting into a hot loaf results in a gummy, doughy center.
“Watch your yeast placement and resist the urge to peek during rising — these small details make a big difference.”
Our checklist enables reliable outcomes:
| Mistake | Effect | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Too much yeast | Over-risen, collapsed loaf | Stick to measured yeast amounts |
| Yeast mixed incorrectly | Poor rise or no rise | Layer yeast separately |
| Old ingredients | Weak flavor and texture | Use fresh yeast and flours |
| Wrong bread cycle | Dense, undercooked bread | Choose Whole Wheat/Multigrain cycle |
| Lid opened mid-cycle | Uneven crumb and weak rise | Keep bread machine closed |
| Ignoring environment changes | Dough too wet or dry | Adjust flour/water slightly |
| Cutting hot bread | Gummy or doughy center | Cool completely before slicing |
By following these Tips for Perfect Bread Machine Results and avoiding common mistakes, we deliver the bold taste and hearty texture that make Dave’s Killer Bread a kitchen favorite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Dave’s Killer Bread Recipe Bread Machine dough or loaf in advance can save us time and ensure we enjoy this wholesome bread whenever we want. Here are our best tips for storing dough and freezing baked bread effectively.
Storing Dough Before Baking
We can prepare the dough ahead and store it safely before baking. This technique helps develop deeper flavor and maintains the bread’s signature hearty texture.
- After mixing the dough in the bread machine and completing the first kneading cycle, remove the dough before the first rise.
- Lightly oil a bowl to prevent sticking. Place the dough in the bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
- Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Cold fermentation enhances the flavor complexity without over-proofing.
- Before baking, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Return the dough to the bread machine pan or shape it manually. Proceed with the final rise and bake as usual.
| Storage Step | Time/Temperature | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate dough | Up to 24 hours, < 40°F | Use oiled bowl and cover tightly |
| Rest before baking | 30 to 60 minutes, room temp | Prevents cold dough from affecting rise |
Pro Tip: Allowing the dough to cold ferment overnight intensifies the nutty flavors imparted by the whole grains and flaxseed.
Freezing and Thawing Baked Bread
Freezing baked Dave’s Killer Bread is a useful way to preserve freshness and savor the bread later without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Allow the bread to cool completely on a rack to avoid sogginess before freezing.
- Slice the loaf to your preferred thickness. Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread in an airtight freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months with best quality maintained.
- To thaw, remove the bread from the freezer and unwrap. Let it thaw at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
- For freshness, warm slices in a toaster or oven for a few minutes before serving.
| Freezing Step | Time/Temperature | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Freeze bread | Up to 3 months, 0°F | Cool completely and wrap tightly |
| Thaw bread | 1 to 2 hours, room temp | Warm slices to refresh flavor |
“Freezing sliced bread allows us to take out only what we need, reducing waste and keeping each serving perfectly fresh.”
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we can enjoy our homemade bread with all its bold, wholesome flavor any time we wish.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying our homemade Dave’s Killer Bread fresh from the bread machine is a rewarding experience. Here are some of the best ways to savor its rich, hearty flavors and robust texture.
Best Ways to Enjoy Dave’s Killer Bread
- Classic Sandwiches: Layer slices of Dave’s Killer Bread with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and crisp veggies. Its dense crumb holds up beautifully to hearty fillings like turkey, avocado, and smoky bacon.
- Toasted with Nut Butter: Toast slices until golden and spread with creamy almond or peanut butter. The combination highlights the bread’s nutty undertones and adds a satisfying protein boost.
- Avocado Toast Upgrade: Mash ripe avocado with a pinch of sea salt and chili flakes, then spread on toasted bread. The crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior create an ideal canvas for this popular health-conscious staple.
- Hearty Breakfast Base: Use thick slices to accompany eggs any style or turn them into French toast by soaking in a cinnamon-vanilla egg batter before frying to golden perfection.
- Soup Companion: Serve a slice alongside your favorite vegetable or bean soup. The wholesome texture of the bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up flavors.
| Serving Suggestion | Description | Ideal Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sandwiches | Thick slices hold deli meats and fresh vegetables well. | Turkey, cheddar, lettuce, tomato |
| Toasted with Nut Butter | Crispy on outside, soft in center, enhanced by nut spread. | Almond butter, honey, banana |
| Avocado Toast Upgrade | Creamy avocado with a touch of spice on toasted bread. | Chili flakes, sea salt, lemon |
| Hearty Breakfast Base | Perfect for eggs or French toast applications. | Eggs, cinnamon syrup, berries |
| Soup Companion | Dense texture ideal for dipping and soaking up soups. | Lentil, tomato, or butternut squash soup |
“We find that toasting Dave’s Killer Bread brings out its nutty complexity and creates a lovely contrast between the crunchy crust and tender crumb.”
For optimal enjoyment, always let the bread cool completely after baking to achieve the ideal slicing texture. Our favorite tip: lightly toast leftover slices before serving to refresh the loaf’s robust flavor and ideal chewiness.
Conclusion
Making Dave’s Killer Bread at home with a bread machine brings a satisfying blend of convenience and quality to our kitchen. With the right ingredients and equipment, we can enjoy a loaf that’s both hearty and packed with bold flavor anytime we want.
By mastering the process and avoiding common pitfalls, we ensure each batch turns out just right—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or a wholesome snack. This recipe empowers us to take control of what we eat without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Let’s keep experimenting and savoring every slice of this delicious homemade bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Dave’s Killer Bread at home?
You need whole wheat flour, bread flour, rolled oats, wheat bran, ground flaxseed, active dry yeast, fine sea salt, brown sugar, warm water, vegetable oil, and honey or maple syrup. Optional add-ins include nuts, dried fruits, and seeds.
Can I use any bread machine to bake this bread?
Use a bread machine with at least a 2-pound loaf capacity, a strong kneading paddle, and whole wheat or multigrain settings. Consistent temperature and power control are important for best results.
How should I layer the ingredients in the bread machine?
Start with warm water, then add honey or maple syrup and vegetable oil. Next, layer dry ingredients, keeping yeast in a well on top of the flour to avoid early activation.
What settings should I use on my bread machine?
Select the Whole Wheat or Multigrain program, set the crust color to medium or dark, and choose the 2-pound loaf size. Baking usually takes 40 to 50 minutes at around 350°F.
How do I achieve the right texture for this bread?
Measure ingredients precisely, ensure correct layering, maintain ingredient temperature, and avoid adding too much yeast. Use fresh ingredients and the appropriate kneading program for best texture.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking to deepen flavors. You can also freeze baked bread and thaw before serving to maintain freshness.
What are some good ways to serve homemade Dave’s Killer Bread?
Try it in classic sandwiches, toasted with nut butter, topped on avocado toast, as a breakfast base, or alongside soups. Toast leftover slices to refresh flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover bread to keep it fresh?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices and toast when ready to eat.