100 Whole Grain Bread Recipe Vegan: Easy and Delicious

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. If you’re searching for a wholesome, hearty, and plant-based loaf, this 100% whole grain bread recipe (vegan) is the answer.

Whether you’re a seasoned bread baker or a beginner eager to try your hand at homemade loaves, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and produces a loaf that’s both nourishing and delicious.

Whole grain bread has a rustic charm, delivering a dense crumb, nutty flavor, and a nutritional punch that’s hard to beat. By using only whole grain flours and skipping the dairy and eggs, you’ll create a loaf that’s perfect for anyone looking to embrace a healthy, compassionate, and sustainable lifestyle.

From hearty sandwiches to morning toast, this bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and bring this golden, wholesome loaf to life!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 100% Whole Grain Goodness: No refined flour here! Every slice is packed with natural fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Vegan & Dairy-Free: Ideal for plant-based eaters and those with dairy or egg allergies.
• Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy or hard to find – just pantry staples and wholesome grains.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, toasted, or as the base for epic vegan sandwiches.
• Customizable: Add seeds, dried fruit, or nuts for variation without compromising the 100% whole grain base.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a loaf (or two) and freeze slices for busy weeks ahead.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inch or 9 x 5 inch)
• Kitchen scale (optional, for best accuracy)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Oven
• Wire cooling rack

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

   In your large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, maple syrup, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is frothy and bubbly.

   If your yeast doesn’t foam up, it may be expired. Start again with fresh yeast for the best rise.

2. Mix the Dough:

   Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the whole wheat flour (and vital wheat gluten if using).

   Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, adding flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and only slightly tacky.

   If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.

   Don’t add too much flour – a slightly sticky dough yields softer bread.

4. First Rise:

   Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

   Let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape and Second Rise:

   Punch down the dough gently to remove excess air. Shape into a loaf by flattening into a rectangle, then rolling up tightly.

   Pinch seam and tuck ends underneath. Place seam-side down in your greased loaf pan.

   Cover and let rise again for 35-45 minutes, until loaf has risen about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.

6. Preheat and Top:

   While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). For a rustic look, brush the top of the loaf with a little water and sprinkle with rolled oats or seeds if desired.

7. Bake:

   Bake in the center of the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. If you have a thermometer, the internal temp should reach about 200°F (93°C).

8. Cool:

   Remove bread from the pan and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the crumb set and prevents gumminess.

9. Slice & Enjoy!

   Once cool, slice with a serrated bread knife. Enjoy fresh, or store in a bread box for up to 3 days.

   For longer storage, freeze sliced bread in a zip-top bag.

Tips & Variations

• Don’t Skip the Vital Wheat Gluten:
  While optional, adding a few tablespoons helps improve the loaf’s rise and texture, especially when using 100% whole grain flour.
• Add-Ins:
  Customize your bread with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts for crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins make a lovely sweet addition.
• Flavor Boost:
  Try mixing in a teaspoon of cinnamon, or a tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seed for extra nutrition.
• Make it Oil-Free:
  Replace olive oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat loaf.
• Different Whole Grains:
  Swap in spelt or rye flour for up to 1 cup for a different flavor profile. Be aware this may affect rise and texture.
• Double Up:
  This recipe doubles beautifully – bake one loaf and freeze the second for later.

“Allowing bread to cool completely before slicing ensures the crumb sets and each slice is perfectly tender.”

Nutrition Facts

Exact values will vary depending on ingredients and add-ins.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Toast: Slather with vegan butter, nut butter, or homemade jam for a nourishing breakfast.
• Sandwiches: Layer with roasted veggies, hummus, or your favorite vegan deli slices for a hearty lunch.
• Avocado Toast: Top with smashed avocado, a sprinkle of seeds, and a squeeze of lemon.
• French Toast: Dip slices in a vegan batter and pan-fry for a decadent brunch treat.
• Bread Crumbs: Use stale slices to make whole grain bread crumbs for casseroles or stuffing.
• Soup Companion: Serve thick slices alongside Lipton Vegetable Soup Mix Recipes for Easy Family Meals for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

Baking your own 100% whole grain vegan bread is a deeply satisfying—and surprisingly easy—way to nourish yourself and your loved ones. Not only does it fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, but you also gain full control over the ingredients, ensuring your bread is as wholesome and natural as possible.

Whether you keep it simple or experiment with add-ins, this bread is guaranteed to become a go-to recipe. Enjoy it as a canvas for creative sandwiches, toast, or as a hearty side for soups and stews.

And if you’re looking for more vegan inspiration, don’t miss our guides to Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner, quick snacks like Recipes Dehydrated Vegetables: Easy Meals and Snacks, or unique sides such as Rutabaga Recipes Vegan: Tasty Plant-Based Meal Ideas.

Happy baking and enjoy every wholesome bite!

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