Wholesome Oatmeal Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F, 43°C)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more if needed)
• Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts or raisins for added texture

Instructions:

1. Soak the Oats:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats with boiling water. Stir in honey, butter, and salt. Let this mixture sit until it cools to lukewarm.
2. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it’s frothy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • To the oat mixture, add the yeast mixture and milk. Mix well.
4. Add Flour:
   • Gradually add the flour, stirring until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. If using, fold in walnuts or raisins at this stage.
5. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
7. Shape and Second Rise:
   • Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise until the dough has topped the pan by about an inch, around 30-45 minutes.
8. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

This oatmeal bread is delicious when served warm, with a bit of butter or as the base for a hearty sandwich. The addition of oats gives it a wonderful texture and a nutritional boost, making it a satisfying addition to any meal.