Bread Machine Blueberry Walnut Honey Wheat Bread

When Should You Add the Blueberries and Walnuts?

Don’t add the dried blueberries and walnuts at the beginning of the cycle. Add them when your bread machine gives its add-in or mix-in signal. On our KBS bread machine, this happens approximately 28 minutes into the cycle.

Adding them later in the kneading process helps distribute the blueberries and walnuts throughout the dough without breaking them down as much during mixing. Bread machines vary, so check your manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended timing.

Why Use Both Whole Wheat and All-Purpose Flour?

This recipe uses equal amounts of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. The whole wheat flour gives the bread its hearty wheat flavor, while the all-purpose flour helps keep the finished loaf softer and lighter.

We also add vital wheat gluten to help strengthen the dough and give the finished bread a springier texture.

What Does the Lemon Zest Do?

One tablespoon of fresh lemon zest might seem like a small addition, but it adds a bright citrus note that pairs especially well with the blueberries and honey. It doesn’t turn this into lemon bread; instead, it helps balance and brighten the other flavors.

Tips for the Best Blueberry Walnut Honey Wheat Bread

Measure your flour carefully. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it rather than scooping directly from the container. Packing too much flour into the measuring cup can result in a dense loaf.

Warm the milk and honey. We combine the whole milk and honey and warm them to approximately 85–95°F before adding them to the bread machine.

Use dried blueberries. This recipe was developed with dried blueberries, which are much better suited to bread-machine mixing than fresh berries.

Wait for the add-in signal. Add the blueberries and walnuts when your machine signals for add-ins rather than adding them with the initial ingredients.

Let the bread cool completely. The inside of the loaf continues setting as it cools. Waiting before slicing will give you cleaner slices and a better crumb.

How to Serve Blueberry Walnut Bread

This slightly sweet, nutty bread is especially good for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Try it:

• Toasted with butter
• With cream cheese
• With honey
• With peanut or almond butter
• Alongside eggs for breakfast
• Simply sliced and enjoyed on its own

Storage and Freezing

Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it. Keep it in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for several days.

This bread also freezes very well. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf securely in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

You can also slice the loaf before freezing so individual slices are easy to remove for breakfast or toast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of dried blueberries?

This recipe was developed using dried blueberries. Fresh blueberries contain considerably more moisture and can break apart during the bread machine’s kneading cycle, which could affect both the dough and the finished loaf. For the most consistent results, use dried blueberries as written.

Do I have to use vital wheat gluten?

Vital wheat gluten helps strengthen the dough, particularly when baking with whole wheat flour, and contributes to a springier texture. For the most consistent results, we recommend making the recipe as written.

Why do I add the blueberries and walnuts later?

Adding the blueberries and walnuts at your machine’s add-in signal helps incorporate them into the dough without subjecting them to the entire kneading cycle. On our KBS bread machine, the signal occurs approximately 28 minutes into the cycle.

Can I leave out the walnuts?

Yes. If you prefer your blueberry bread without nuts, you can omit the walnuts. The dried blueberries, honey, and lemon zest will still give the loaf plenty of flavor.

Can I freeze Blueberry Walnut Honey Wheat Bread?

Yes. Allow the loaf to cool completely, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.