Maple Oatmeal Bread

Directions

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.