Sunflower Seed Bread
Bread baking has a timeless charm that brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of accomplishment to any kitchen. Among the many varieties, sunflower seed bread stands out for its nutty flavor, hearty texture, and nutritional benefits. Loaded with crunchy sunflower seeds, this bread offers a delightful bite while providing essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Making sunflower seed bread at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome loaf free from unnecessary preservatives. Its slightly sweet, nutty aroma as it bakes fills the kitchen with a comforting scent, making it perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with butter.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. It combines simple ingredients to create a soft yet hearty loaf that is both satisfying and versatile. Homemade sunflower seed bread also makes a thoughtful gift for friends or family and freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy fresh bread anytime.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups | 1,365 |
| Whole wheat flour | 1 cup | 400 |
| Instant yeast | 2 ¼ tsp | 20 |
| Salt | 1 ½ tsp | 0 |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | 128 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 238 |
| Warm water (110°F/43°C) | 1 ½ cups | 0 |
| Sunflower seeds (divided) | ¾ cup | 500 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare yeast mixture
In a small bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. - Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and ½ cup of sunflower seeds. - Combine wet and dry ingredients
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. - Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary. - First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size. - Shape the loaf
Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Sprinkle remaining sunflower seeds on top. - Second rise
Cover and let the loaf rise for 30–40 minutes until slightly puffed. - Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. - Cool
Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Seeds & nuts: Add pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped walnuts for extra texture.
- Flavor variations: Incorporate 1–2 tbsp of molasses or maple syrup for a richer taste.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and adjust water as needed.
- Crispier crust: Brush the top with water or milk before baking.
- Sweet version: Add ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries for a slightly sweet loaf.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 221 |
| Protein | 6–7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30–32 g |
| Fat | 9–10 g |
| Fiber | 4–5 g |
| Sugar | 3–4 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Toast slices and spread with butter, cream cheese, or nut butter.
- Use as a base for hearty sandwiches with turkey, cheese, or roasted vegetables.
- Serve alongside soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.
- Make French toast with slightly stale sunflower seed bread for a nutty twist.
- Pack slices for breakfast or a nutritious snack on-the-go.
Sunflower Seed Bread
12 slices
servings15
minutes30
minutes221
kcalIngredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
1 ½ tsp salt
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
¾ cup sunflower seeds (divided)
Directions
- Combine warm water, honey, and yeast; let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix flours, salt, and ½ cup sunflower seeds.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil to flour mixture; mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
- Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, place in greased 9×5-inch pan, and sprinkle remaining seeds on top.
- Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C); bake 30–35 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes before slicing.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for the best texture and flavor, though all-purpose alone works if preferred.
Lightly flour your surface when kneading to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much extra flour to keep the bread soft.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour only?
Yes, you can use only all-purpose flour, but combining it with whole wheat flour adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.
2. Can I use roasted or raw sunflower seeds?
Both work. Roasted seeds give a deeper flavor, while raw seeds add a milder, natural nutty taste.
3. How should I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and adjust water as needed, since gluten-free dough behaves differently.
5. Can I add other seeds or nuts?
Absolutely! Pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, or chopped walnuts can be added to the dough or sprinkled on top.
Conclusion
Sunflower seed bread is a wholesome, versatile, and satisfying loaf that combines nutty flavor with hearty nutrition. Easy enough for home bakers of all levels, it makes breakfast, lunch, or snack time extra special. Baking this bread not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also provides a nourishing treat that can be enjoyed fresh, toasted, or frozen for later. With its golden crust and crunchy sunflower seeds, this bread is a true crowd-pleaser that belongs in every kitchen.
