Instructions:
Toasting Seeds: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the mixed seeds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and let cool.
Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, toasted seeds, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to guarantee even distribution of the ingredients.
Adding Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour in the hot water, milk, olive oil, and honey into the dry mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together and forms a rough ball.
Kneading: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it by hand for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 to 7 minutes.
Resting: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has roughly doubled in size.
Shaping: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a taught ball or an 8" log, then place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or bowl.
First Rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again in a warm place for another 1 to 2 hours, or until it has roughly doubled and the center crowns about 1" above the rim of the pan.
Preheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F during the last 15 minutes of the second rise.
Baking: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. It's done when a digital thermometer inserted into the center registers at least 190°F.
Cooling: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
When baking whole wheat bread, remember that the dough may require slight adjustments in hydration based on the flour's absorbency. Don't hesitate to add a little more water or flour as needed during the mixing process.
Additionally, you can experiment with different sweeteners or add-ins like nuts or dried fruits to customize your bread to your liking. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
