Oatmeal Molasses Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Measure the water into a large mixing bowl.
2. 2
   Sprinkle on the yeast and stir to dissolve.
3. 3
   Blend in milk and molasses.
4. 4
   Add the oats, melted butter, salt and beaten egg.
5. 5
   Blend thoroughly.
6. 6
   Add 2 cups of flour and beat with a wooden spoon until smooth.
7. 7
   Gradually blend in additional flour until the dough becomes too difficult to stir.
8. 8
   Turn out onto a floured surface and knead in as much of the remaining flour as necessary to form a cohesive dough.
9. 9
   Continue kneading in flour until the dough is soft yet no longer sticks to the work surface.
10. 10
    Transfer to a greased bowl and cover witha clean kitchen towel.
11. 11
    Allow the dough to rise until double in bulk.
12. 12
    Generously grease a baking sheet.
13. 13
    Punch the dough down, then turn it out onto a floured surface.
14. 14
    Shape it into 2 round loaves and place them on the prepared sheet.
15. 15
    Cover and set aside to rise.
16. 16
    When doubled in bulk, ake in preheated 375* oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the loaves sound hollow when you tap the tops.
17. 17
    Remove from the sheet and transfer to a rack to cool.