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A loaf of brown bread with a rugged crust, reminiscent of a classic farro bread recipe, rests on a light wooden surface.

Whole Grain Farro Bread

This hearty, sturdy Farro Bread is full of flavor and nutrition. Using ancient grains results in a more dense loaf that has more complex flavor notes.
Prep Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 55 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups farro flour freshly ground or store-bought
  • 1 ½ cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water around 110°F or 45°C
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: ¼ cup soaked whole farro grains for extra texture

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the farro flour, bread flour, salt, and yeast.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the warm water, honey, and olive oil until combined.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment if using a stand mixer.
  • If using soaked whole farro grains, fold them in at this stage for extra texture.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes (or mix in a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes on medium speed).
  • The dough should feel soft, slightly sticky, and elastic. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water; if too wet, add a little more flour.
  • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
  • Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
  • Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a round boule or oblong loaf.
  • Place it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased bread pan.
  • Cover and let it rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until puffy.
  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven while it preheats.
  • If baking on a sheet, create steam for a crispy crust by placing a pan of hot water on the bottom rack.
  • Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame to allow for expansion.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Keyword ancient grains, farro, farro bread, whole grain farro bread