Homemade Wheat Bread Mix: Your Secret to Easy, Wholesome Loaves!

Life gets busy, but that doesn't mean we have to sacrifice the simple pleasures, like a warm, crusty slice of homemade wheat bread.

This prep-ahead wheat bread mix is a true game-changer! By preparing this mix in advance, you cut down your active baking time significantly, making homemade bread a realistic weekday treat.

Why You'll Love This Mix

• Time-Saver: The bulk of the measuring and mixing is done upfront.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with whole wheat flour and wheat germ for extra nutrients and fiber.
• Convenience: Store it in your pantry, and it's ready whenever the craving strikes!
• Economical: Making your own bread is often cheaper than buying store-bought.
• Delicious: Enjoy that satisfying homemade taste and texture!

Homemade Wheat Bread Mix Recipe

This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for several loaves of bread.

Ingredients:

• 6 Cups Whole Wheat Flour
• 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 1/2 Cups Instant Nonfat Dry Milk
• 1 Tablespoon Salt
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1/2 Cup Wheat Germ
• 1/4 Cup Baking Powder
• 2 Cups Vegetable Shortening

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a very large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, dry milk, salt, sugar, wheat germ, and baking powder.
2. Mix Well: Using a large whisk or spoon, mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are uniformly combined. Ensure the leaveners and seasonings are fully distributed.
3. Cut in Shortening: Add the vegetable shortening. Use a pastry blender to cut the solid shortening into the flour mixture.
4. Blend to Crumbs: Continue blending until the shortening is broken down into small, pea-sized pieces and is evenly distributed throughout the entire mix. The finished texture should resemble coarse cornmeal or crumbs.
5. Storage: Transfer the finished mix into an airtight container (e.g., a large plastic container or multiple freezer bags).
6. Label: Be sure to label the container with the date and contents (Wheat Bread Mix).
7. Store: Store the mix in a cool, dry place.

Storage Note: For the best results and rising power, use this bread mix within 10 to 12 weeks. The baking powder is most effective when used within a few months of preparation.

How to Use Your Bread Mix

This mix is the foundation for your bread! When you are ready to bake, you will need to add liquids and often yeast (depending on the loaf style).

• Quick Bread Style: This mix can be adapted for quick breads or muffins by adding eggs and liquids like water or buttermilk.
• Yeast Loaf Style: Use a measured portion of the mix, dissolve yeast in warm water, and then knead it all together for a traditional yeast loaf.