Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and 1 tablespoon of honey. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it's frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, whole wheat flour, wheat germ, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk, softened butter, and the remaining honey until smooth. Once the yeast is frothy, add it to this mixture.
Step 4: Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky but manageable.
Step 5: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 6: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto the floured surface and shape it into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle and rolling it tightly.
Step 8: Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes, or until it has risen above the rim of the pan.
Step 9: Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 10: Bake the Bread: Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 11: Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.