Oatmeal Molasses Bread

1. 1

   In a bowl, pour boiling water over oats; let stand 30 minutes or until mixture has cooled to warm (110u00b0-115u00b0).

2. 2

   In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand 5 minutes. Stir in oat mixture, molasses, butter, anise seed if desired, salt and 2 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

3. 3

   Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

4. 4

   Punch dough down; divide in half. Shape into two loaves and place in greased 9x5-in. loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

5. 5

   Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375u00b0. Bake 40 minutes or until bread sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from pans to cool on wire racks.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.