When it comes to baking, many of us are looking for ways to make our treats healthier without sacrificing flavor. One simple and effective way to do this is by using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour is made from the entire grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, making it a more nutritious option that’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that use whole wheat flour as the primary ingredient. From sweet treats like banana bread and chocolate chip cookies to savory options like pizza dough and sandwich bread, there’s something for everyone in our collection of whole wheat flour recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your baking and make healthier choices that still taste amazing.
Whole Wheat Banana Bread
This classic recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for snacking or as a breakfast treat. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour, you’ll be hooked from the first slice.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Whole Wheat Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a delicious and nutritious breakfast featuring whole wheat pancakes topped with pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
5. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with pure maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Pizza Dough
This recipe yields a delicious and nutritious whole wheat pizza dough that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. With its nutty flavor and dense texture, this dough is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with the lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the olive oil, yeast mixture, and 1 cup of warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Form into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into your desired pizza crust.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies
Looking for a delicious and nutritious treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing? Look no further! These Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies are made with wholesome ingredients and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Whole Wheat Blueberry Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and wholesome treat – these whole wheat blueberry muffins are packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with sweet blueberry flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Cinnamon Rolls
These soft and gooey whole wheat cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast treat. Made with wholesome ingredients and a touch of warmth from the oven, they’re perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together yeast, warm milk, and beaten egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then roll out into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
6. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle cinnamon, and roll up tightly.
7. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread
This classic recipe yields a deliciously soft and flavorful whole wheat sandwich bread, perfect for everyday meals or as a base for sandwiches, toast, and more. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked loaves in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Wheat Pretzels
Create a delicious and healthy snack with this simple recipe for whole wheat pretzels.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, warm water, yeast, and sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape.
6. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Wheat Apple Cake
This moist and flavorful Whole Wheat Apple Cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a delightful dessert to share with friends and family. With the natural sweetness of apples and the nutty flavor of whole wheat, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in chopped apples and walnuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Whole Wheat Tortillas
Make your own whole wheat tortillas at home with this simple recipe. Perfect for tacos, wraps, and sandwiches, these tender and flavorful tortillas are a great alternative to store-bought varieties.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Cook the tortillas on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for 30-45 seconds per side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Whole Wheat Pumpkin Bread
As the seasons change, a comforting loaf of whole wheat pumpkin bread is just what you need to cozy up with. This moist and flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices.
3. Add pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
These soft and aromatic dinner rolls are perfect for any occasion. Made with whole wheat flour, yeast, and a hint of sugar, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into rolls.
6. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Carrot Cake
Moist and flavorful, this whole wheat carrot cake is a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using).
4. Pour in melted butter and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Whole Wheat Bagels
Start your day with a deliciously chewy and flavorful homemade whole wheat bagel. This recipe yields four to six perfectly cooked bagels, perfect for toasting or serving with your favorite spread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into four equal pieces, shape each into a bagel, and place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Zucchini Bread
Moist and flavorful, this whole wheat zucchini bread is perfect for a snack or dessert. The addition of grated zucchini adds natural sweetness and texture to this wholesome treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and grated zucchini. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Whole Wheat Crepes with Fresh Berries
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast by filling thin, delicate crepes with sweet and tangy fresh berries. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) for filling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
5. Fill with fresh berries and fold crepe in half. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch (depending on the number of crepes you make).
Whole Wheat Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Moist and flavorful, these cookies combine the goodness of whole wheat, oatmeal, and sweet raisins to create a delicious snack perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Wheat Focaccia Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously soft and flavorful whole wheat focaccia bread, perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving as a side to your favorite Italian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, whole wheat flour, and sugar to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Dimple the surface with your fingers.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and nutty cookies that combine the goodness of whole wheat flour with the richness of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Add milk and egg; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Whole Wheat Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are the perfect way to start your day, packed with whole wheat goodness, a burst of citrusy lemon, and the crunch of poppy seeds. Enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or as a sweet treat any time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and poppy seeds. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in buttermilk.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Discover the power of whole wheat flour with these 20 delicious and healthy recipes. From sweet treats like Whole Wheat Banana Bread and Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies, to savory delights like Whole Wheat Pizza Dough and Whole Wheat Pretzels, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with breakfast options like Whole Wheat Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Whole Wheat Cinnamon Rolls. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these whole wheat flour recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
