Maple bread made with freshly milled flour combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the hearty, nutty flavors of whole-grain flour. Here’s a simple recipe for making it:
Maple Bread with Freshly Milled Flour
Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly milled whole wheat flour (or your preferred grain)
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (plus more for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds (optional, for added moisture)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for extra texture)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, which indicates the yeast is active.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly milled flour and salt. If you’re using flaxseeds or any nuts, add them now. Stir to combine.
- Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture, milk, and olive oil (or butter). Stir everything together with a spoon or your hands until it forms a sticky dough.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if it’s too sticky, but be careful not to add too much to maintain the moisture.
- First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat it lightly in oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by folding the edges of the dough toward the center and rolling it up tightly.
- Second rise: Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up and is nearly level with the top of the pan.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Brush the top of the dough with a little maple syrup for extra flavor and a glossy finish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it once it’s cool enough to handle.
Enjoy your maple bread as a breakfast treat, a snack, or paired with butter and jam!
Feel free to tweak the recipe with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth, or even use different flours (like spelt or rye) for a unique twist.