EASY HONEY OATMEAL BREAD

2 cups water, divided use
1 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup margarine or butter, softened
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon salt
2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1 egg
4 to 5 cups all-purpose flour, divided use
melted butter (optional, for brushing tops)

Grease 2 (8 1/2x4 1/2x2 1/2-inch) loaf pans.

In a saucepan, heat one cup water to boiling. Stir in oats margarine, honey and salt. Cool to lukewarm.

Heat remaining water to 110-115 degrees F and dissolve yeast.

In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast mixture, egg, two cups flour and the oats mixture. Beat until ingredients are combined and the batter is smooth.

By hand, add enough remaining flour to make a stiff batter. Spread batter evenly into prepared loaf pans. Smooth tops of loaves. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 35-40 minutes.

Bake in a preheated 375 degree F oven for 40-45 minutes. Remove from pans and brush with melted butter, if desired.

Makes 2 loaves
From: Edy's Cookhouse
Source: Maine Sportsman