Soft 100% Whole Wheat Bread Machine Recipe (Dairy-Free)

As a busy homeschooling mom, I know that kneading bread by hand is often impossible between work and family life. That is why our bread machine is a lifesaver for making healthy, homemade meals without the stress or mess. This 100% whole wheat, dairy-free recipe stays soft and fluffy thanks to a simple trick with apple cider vinegar.

Making bread in a bread machine is not only convenient but also rewarding. You can walk away while the machine kneads, rises, and bakes, and come back to a warm, fresh loaf that is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a little butter or jam. This recipe is ideal for busy families who want healthy bread without sacrificing time or flavor.

For more delicious bread machine recipes, try my sourdough bread machine loaf and my homemade white bread machine recipe.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no additional cost to you.

Why This is the Best Dairy-Free Whole Wheat Bread

This is my favorite bread machine to use! It is non-toxic (no teflon pan) and has lasted for years.

Finding a 100% whole wheat bread machine recipe that stays soft without dairy can be difficult. Most store-bought brands use milk or butter to improve texture. This recipe uses simple plant-based ingredients to create a tender, sandwich-ready loaf.

Clean Ingredients for Your Family

Whole wheat flour is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains the fiber and minerals often missing in white bread. By making this dairy-free whole wheat bread at home, you avoid preservatives and unnecessary additives. We use olive oil instead of butter to keep the recipe vegan and heart-healthy.

Soft Texture Every Time

The secret to this dairy-free bread machine recipe is the hydration. Using the specific whole wheat cycle allows the grains to soften properly. You get a light, fluffy result that is perfect for toast or sandwiches. This recipe proves you can prioritize health without sacrificing taste or texture.

Ingredients for 100% Whole Wheat Bread Machine Recipe (Dairy-Free)

Whole wheat flour is heavier than white flour because it contains bran and germ. This can make the bread dense if not handled properly. To keep the loaf soft, I always add 1 tablespoon of homemade apple scrap vinegar.The acidity in the vinegar helps relax the gluten and produces a tender crumb, giving your 100% whole wheat bread a soft, fluffy texture every time.

Here is what you will need for this 100% whole wheat bread machine recipe:

• 3 cups whole wheat flour, preferably organic or freshly milled
• 1 1/3 cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or another neutral oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons rapid rise yeast
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or homemade apple scrap vinegar

This combination ensures a soft, flavorful, dairy-free loaf every time.

Bread Machine Instructions

If you are new to bread machines or have asked how do I make bread in a bread machine, follow these simple steps. They work every time.

1. Activate the yeast first. Pour the warm water and honey into the bread machine pan. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Close the lid and leave the machine off for about 10 minutes. This gives the yeast time to activate and start bubbling.
2. Add the remaining wet ingredients. After the yeast has activated, add the olive oil and apple cider vinegar into the pan.
3. Add the dry ingredients. Pour the whole wheat flour on top of the wet ingredients. Sprinkle the salt on top of everything. Keeping the salt separate from the yeast ensures it does not interfere with the rising process.
4. Select your settings. Choose the 100% whole wheat setting if your bread machine has one. Set the crust to medium and the loaf size to 1.5 pounds unless your machine specifies otherwise.
5. Let the bread machine do the work. The machine will knead, rise, and bake your bread. This process usually takes about three hours depending on your machine. DO NOT OPEN THE LID AT ALL! Every time I have ever opened the lid to check on it, my bread will collapse. Patience is key!
6. Cool the bread. Remove the bread from the machine and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier.

Tips for Perfect Whole Wheat Bread Machine Bread

Even the best recipe can benefit from a few simple tips:

• Use warm water, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast. Aim for 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not skip the apple cider vinegar. That tablespoon is the secret to a soft 100% whole wheat loaf.
• Check your yeast. Fresh, active yeast will ensure a proper rise.
• Adjust for humidity. Flour absorbs more water in dry climates. Add water gradually if the dough seems stiff.
• Avoid opening the lid while the bread is kneading. This can interfere with proper rising.

Variations You Can Try

While this recipe is perfect on its own, you can create fun variations that your family will love:

• Honey Wheat Bread Machine Recipe. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey for a slightly sweeter loaf. Honey also helps keep the bread moist.
• Seeded Whole Wheat Bread. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of flax, chia, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds during the last kneading cycle.
• Herb or Garlic Whole Wheat Bread. Mix in dried rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder with the flour for a savory loaf.

Common Problems With Whole Wheat Bread in a Bread Machine

Even experienced bakers run into issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

• Dense loaf. Often caused by not enough liquid, weak yeast, or too much flour. Make sure your yeast is fresh and check your water measurements.
• Flat or sunken center. Check that you measured the flour correctly. Too much or too little flour can affect the rise. Make sure the dough rises fully before baking.
• Hard crust. Whole wheat tends to brown quickly. Choose a lighter crust setting.
• Dry or crumbly bread. The apple cider vinegar helps, but make sure your water measurements are correct and do not overbake. Adding a tablespoon of oil also helps retain moisture.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar Makes a Difference

You may be wondering why I add apple cider vinegar to a bread machine loaf. The mild acidity helps break down the proteins in the flour, making the gluten more flexible. This leads to a soft, fluffy crumb even in 100% whole wheat bread, which is naturally denser than white bread. This small step makes a big difference.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
• Store at room temperature in a sealed container for two to three days.
• Slice and freeze extra bread for longer storage. You can toast slices straight from the freezer.
• Enjoy as sandwiches, toast with jam, or even homemade croutons.

Why This Recipe Works

If you have searched for bread machine recipe or whole wheat bread machine recipes, you may have tried versions that are dense or require dairy. This recipe solves common problems:

• 100% whole wheat for maximum nutrition
• Dairy-free and vegan-friendly (if you use maple syrup)
• Soft crumb thanks to apple cider vinegar
• Hands-off convenience for busy moms
• Customizable with honey, seeds, or herbs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I make bread in a bread machine?
First, activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and honey in the bread machine pan and letting it sit for 10 minutes. Then add the remaining wet ingredients followed by the dry ingredients. Select the 100% whole wheat setting and let the machine knead, rise, and bake. Check the dough during kneading and adjust hydration if needed for the best results.

Q: Can I make a honey wheat bread machine recipe?
A: Yes. Substitute 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey for optional sweetness. It will add flavor and help the bread stay moist.

Q: How should I store homemade bread machine bread?
A: Let it cool completely, then store in a sealed container for two to three days. Slice and freeze extra bread for longer storage.

Q: Can I use other flours?
A: White whole wheat or spelt flour will work, but you may need to adjust the hydration. This recipe is designed for standard whole wheat flour.

Homemade whole wheat bread machine recipes do not have to be complicated or rely on dairy. With a few simple ingredients and a bread machine, you can have a soft, healthy loaf ready for your family. Whether you are looking for a whole wheat bread recipe for bread machine, a honey wheat bread machine recipe, or a reliable bread machine recipe, this guide gives you everything you need for a successful loaf.