Quick Description:
This hearty and rustic seeded bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite dishes. With a beautiful, golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, it’s packed with pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame seeds that add flavor and crunch in every bite.
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 10–12 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 2 hours
- Bake Time: 30–40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Ingredients List:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for better rise)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Stir to mix well.
- Make a well in the center and add honey, warm water, and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- Add the mixed seeds to the dough and knead them in until evenly distributed.
2. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Loaf:
- Punch down the dough to release air and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Place it in a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of mixed seeds on top and lightly press them into the dough. For extra crunch, brush the top with olive oil before topping.
4. Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edge of the pan.
5. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
- Bake the bread for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C).
6. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures the bread sets properly.
- Serve with butter, cheese, or your favorite spreads!
Storage & Make-Ahead:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container or wrap in foil for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Slice before freezing for easy access to individual pieces.
Additional Notes:
- For extra flavor: Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
Enjoy your Seeded Bread with its crunchy texture and hearty, nutty flavor! Perfect for all occasions!
