Teddy Bears

Directions

1. 1
   Place warm water in large warm bowl.
2. 2
   Sprinkle in yeast; stir until dissolved.
3. 3
   Add warm milk, butter, sugar, salt, and 2 cups all-purpose flour; blend well.
4. 4
   Stir in 2 eggs, whole wheat flour, and enough remaining all-purpose flour to make stiff batter.
5. 5
   Grease top; cover tightly with plastic wrap.
6. 6
   Refrigerate 2 to 24 hours.
7. 7
   Remove from refrigerator.
8. 8
   Punch dough down.
9. 9
   Remove dough to lightly floured surface.
10. 10
    Divide dough into 4 equal portions; set aside 2 portions.
11. 11
    Shape 1 portion into ball for body.
12. 12
    Place on large greased baking sheet; flatten slightly.
13. 13
    Divide 1 portion in half; break off 3/4-inch piece, and shape into ball for nose.
14. 14
    Shape remaining piece into ball for head.
15. 15
    Attach head to body; pinch to seal.
16. 16
    Attach nose to head; pinch to seal.
17. 17
    Divide remaining half of portion into 6 equal pieces.
18. 18
    Shape into balls, and attach to body and head to form paws and ears; pinch to seal.
19. 19
    Press date pieces or raisins into dough for eyes and buttons.
20. 20
    Repeat with remaining portions.
21. 21
    Cover; let rise in warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 40 to 60 minutes.
22. 22
    Beat remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush over dough.
23. 23
    Redefine shapes, if necessary.
24. 24
    Bake at 350oF for 25 minutes or until golden.
25. 25
    Remove from sheets; let cool on wire racks.
26. 26
    You may tie a ribbon on if you like!