Classic 100% Whole Wheat Bread

If using a bread machine, combine all the ingredients in the bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Set on dough setting.

Otherwise, combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Beat on low speed with an electric mixer just until a soft dough forms. Switch to a dough hook and knead the bread on low for 6-8 minutes or until it is smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover the bowl and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Remove the dough from the bread machine or bowl. Form the dough into a loaf shape and place in a greased bread pan. Cover the pan with greased plastic wrap and let rise in a warm location for 1 hour. It should be about 1-inch above the top of the pan when ready.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Remove the plastic wrap from the bread and place the bread in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack. Let the bread cool completely before slicing. Store the whole wheat bread in an airtight container.