Spelt: Ancient Grain and All the How To's

It’s Back! Spelt is one of those ancient grains that’s quietly making a comeback—and for good reason. You all asked for spelt and we made it happen. With its nutty flavor, satisfying texture, and impressive nutritional profile, spelt is both a versatile pantry staple and a nutritious alternative to modern wheat. Whether you're a home baker, a grain bowl enthusiast, or someone exploring whole-food eating, spelt is definitely worth getting to know.

How to Store

To store spelt berries, we recommend keeping them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They’ll stay fresh for many months in the pantry or even years when stored properly. Don't know what to use to hold it? We like to use a jar with a tight lid or for bulk purchases, our airtight food grade bucket works great! 

Cooking Spelt?

Cooking spelt is simple, and the result is a wonderfully chewy, nutty grain that holds up well in many dishes. To cook whole spelt berries, start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Then, use a ratio of about 1 part spelt berries to 3 parts water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes until the grains are tender but still pleasantly chewy. An optional step is soaking the berries overnight, it will cut down on cooking time but isn’t necessary. Cooked spelt is perfect in grain bowls, hearty soups, risottos, or even as a warm breakfast cereal with fruit, cinnamon, and a splash of milk or cream. You could eat it for every meal of the day if you wanted!

Homemade Spelt Baked Goods

If you like baking with fresh flour, milling our spelt berries at home is a rewarding experience. Spelt grinds beautifully in most home mills, and you can choose the texture—coarse for rustic breads or fine for lighter pastries and pancakes. Because spelt contains gluten, it can be used in bread recipes, but it behaves differently than standard wheat flour. The gluten in spelt is more fragile, which means doughs don’t need as much kneading and can become overworked quickly. We’ve found that gentle handling and slightly lower hydration help create better structure in spelt-based breads.

Nutritional Benefits?

When it comes to nutrition, spelt is a standout. It’s rich in fiber, especially when eaten as a whole grain, which supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. It’s also a good source of plant-based protein, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and B vitamins like niacin and thiamine—all essential for energy production, muscle function, and immune health. Because it’s a whole grain, spelt also helps support long-term heart health and can aid in weight management by promoting satiety.

How is Spelt Different from Wheat?

While spelt and modern wheat share similarities, they have some key differences in flavor, structure, and nutrition. Spelt has a nuttier, slightly sweeter taste than the neutral profile of regular wheat. It also absorbs water more quickly and contains a different type of gluten that behaves differently in baking. Nutritionally, spelt is often higher in protein and certain minerals, and many people find it gentler on the digestive system. It offers a middle ground between the familiarity of wheat and the nutrient-density of more ancient grains.

We are excited to be able to offer spelt as a part of our Clear Creek product line. Have you tried it? Whether you’re cooking it whole, milling it for fresh flour, or just looking to add more variety and nutrition to your meals, spelt is a satisfying, wholesome choice with deep roots and modern appeal. Once you start experimenting with it, it might just become a pantry staple you return to again and again.