Maple Oatmeal Bread

1. 1

   in a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and butter.

2. 2

   Pour boiling water over and stir until butter melts.

3. 3

   Add scalded milk, maple syrup and salt.

4. 4

   Let mixture cool slightly until warm to the touch (if using a thermometer, temperature should read 125 - 130 degrees).

5. 5

   Stir in whole-wheat flour, yeast and egg; beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until smooth.

6. 6

   Stir in enough all-purpose flour to make a stiff dough.

7. 7

   Turn out on floured board and knead, sprinkling surface with additional flour to prevent dough from sticking, until smooth and elastic, about 8 - 10 minutes.

8. 8

   Shape into a ball and place a lightly buttered bowl; turn to coat dough on all sides with butter.

9. 9

   Cover with a clean dry towel and let rise for 30 minutes.

10. 10

    Punch down dough and divide in half.

11. 11

    Shape into loaves and place in 2 greased 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 inch loaf pans.

12. 12

    Brush tops of loaves with melted butter.

13. 13

    Cover and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk -- about 35 - 45 minutes.

14. 14

    Bake in an oven preheated to 375 degrees for 35 - 40 minutes or until done.

15. 15

    Turn loaves out of pans and let cool on racks.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.