Classic Whole Wheat Honey Oat Bread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Additional oats for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • Once the yeast is activated, add olive oil and oats to the mixture and stir well.
   • Gradually add whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
   • Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. You can do this by rolling it out into a rectangle and then rolling it up tightly, or by shaping it into a round loaf.
6. Second Rise:
   • Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven:
   • About 15 minutes before the dough has finished its second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Bread:
   • If desired, brush the top of the loaf with water and sprinkle additional oats over it for decoration.
   • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve slices of this delicious honey oatmeal bread with butter, jam, honey, or your favorite spreads.