Freshly Milled Bread Recipe for Soft, Homemade Loaves

There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking bread from scratch, especially when you start with freshly milled flour. The aroma alone can transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting bakery.

Milling your own flour not only ensures maximum freshness but also locks in the full spectrum of nutrients and flavors that commercial flours often lose during processing. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to dive into the wholesome world of home baking with a truly artisanal touch.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a delicious, crusty loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter and jam.

Using freshly milled grains means your bread will have a richer taste and a heartier texture, making every bite a delight. Plus, you control exactly what goes into your bread—no additives or preservatives, just simple, natural ingredients.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the rewarding process of baking from flour to loaf? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This freshly milled bread recipe is a game-changer for bread lovers looking to elevate their baking experience. Here’s why it stands out:

• Maximum Freshness: Milling your own flour means no stale flour or off-flavors. Enjoy the natural nuttiness and aroma of fresh grains.
• Health Benefits: Whole grains milled fresh retain more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than pre-packaged flours.
• Customizable Texture: You can adjust the coarseness of your flour to create a loaf that’s chewy, soft, or dense based on your preference.
• Cost Effective: Buying whole grains in bulk and milling at home can save money over time and reduce packaging waste.
• Sensory Satisfaction: The process of grinding, kneading, and baking your bread from scratch is incredibly rewarding and therapeutic.

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole wheat berries (or your choice of grain for milling)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for softer crumb)

Equipment

• Grain mill (manual or electric)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dough scraper or wooden spoon
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or bread pan
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Mill your flour: Measure out the whole wheat berries and mill them into flour using your grain mill. Aim for a medium grind for a nice balance between texture and rise.
2. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey (or maple syrup) in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until foamy.
3. Combine ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, mix the freshly milled flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil if using.
4. Knead the dough: Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough comes together. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
5. First rise: Lightly oil your mixing bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
6. Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet or into a loaf pan.
7. Second rise: Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise until puffed and nearly doubled, about 45 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place an oven-safe dish of water on the bottom rack to create steam for a crustier bread.
9. Bake: Using a sharp knife or bread lame, score the top of the loaf with 2-3 slashes. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool: Transfer your bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing to ensure the crumb sets properly.

Tips & Variations

“Freshly milled flour absorbs water differently than store-bought flour, so you may need to adjust the hydration slightly based on your flour’s coarseness and humidity.”

• Hydration adjustment: If the dough feels too dry or stiff, add water a tablespoon at a time. For wetter doughs, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
• Flour blends: Experiment by mixing freshly milled wheat with rye, spelt, or barley for unique flavors and textures.
• Add-ins: Fold in seeds, nuts, dried fruit, or herbs during kneading for extra nutrition and taste.
• Slow fermentation: Try refrigerating the dough overnight after the first rise for enhanced flavor and digestibility.
• Crust options: For a softer crust, brush the loaf with olive oil or melted butter right after baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Freshly baked bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Simple and classic: Spread with butter, honey, or your favorite jam for a cozy breakfast or snack.
• Hearty sandwiches: Use thick slices for robust sandwiches filled with roasted veggies, hummus, or your favorite deli-style fillings.
• Toasty delights: Toast slices and top with avocado, tomato, or vegan cheese for a quick, nutritious meal. Check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for inspiration.
• Accompaniment: Serve warm bread alongside soups and stews, such as the comforting Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.
• Snack time: Cut into cubes and use for homemade croutons or bread snacks — see our Bread Snacks Veg Recipes Of India To Try Today for ideas.

Conclusion

Baking bread with freshly milled flour is a wonderfully wholesome and rewarding process that reconnects you with the roots of traditional baking. Not only do you get a loaf bursting with flavor and nutrition, but you also gain a deeper appreciation for the ingredients and craft involved.

This recipe is approachable and adaptable, perfect for those eager to experiment with whole grains and homemade bread. Whether it’s a weekend project or a new staple in your kitchen routine, freshly milled bread offers unmatched freshness and taste that store-bought loaves simply can’t compete with.

So grab your grain mill, warm up your oven, and enjoy the delightful journey from berry to beautiful loaf!

For more delicious recipes that complement your homemade bread, check out our collection of Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy baking!

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