Homemade Flaxseed Bread

### Instructions

1. **Activate the Yeast:**
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey or maple syrup. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go.

2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ground flaxseeds, salt, and baking soda. If you are using whole flaxseeds, add them to the dry mixture as well. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. **Add Wet Ingredients:**
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil (or coconut oil), and apple cider vinegar (if using). Mix everything together using a spatula or your hands until a dough starts to form.

4. **Knead the Dough:**
Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic, though slightly sticky due to the flaxseeds. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.

5. **First Rise:**
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. **Shape the Dough:**
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, and let it rise for another 30 minutes to an hour.

7. **Preheat the Oven:**
While the dough is having its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

8. **Bake the Bread:**
Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you want a crispier crust, you can brush the top of the loaf with a little water before baking.

9. **Cool and Serve:**
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

### Tips for Perfect Flaxseed Bread

– **Add Seeds for Texture:** If you want to enhance the texture of your bread, you can sprinkle whole flaxseeds or sesame seeds on top before baking.
– **Gluten-Free Option:** If you prefer a gluten-free version of this bread, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to add additional binding agents like xanthan gum for the best texture.
– **Storage:** Store your flaxseed bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces for up to 3 months.
– **Add Herbs or Spices:** If you like experimenting with flavors, try adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or spices such as cinnamon or garlic powder to the dough for a unique twist.

### Why Make Your Own Bread?

Making your own bread, especially with nutritious ingredients like flaxseeds, gives you full control over what goes into your loaf. Store-bought breads often contain preservatives, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, but homemade bread can be as simple or as healthy as you like. Plus, the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home is always a treat!

Flaxseed bread is a great way to incorporate more fiber and healthy fats into your diet, and it’s a versatile addition to your meal planning. Whether you’re enjoying it with butter and jam for breakfast or using it to make a hearty sandwich, this homemade flaxseed bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

### Conclusion

This homemade flaxseed bread recipe is simple, nutritious, and versatile. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier bread option without compromising on taste. Whether you stick with the basic recipe or get creative with herbs and seeds, you’re sure to enjoy the wholesome goodness of flaxseed bread. Happy baking!