Sunflower Seed and Honey Wheat Bread

Is there anything more delicious then a piping hot slice of hearty bread, fresh out of the oven? There is something about the smell as it is baking, the softness of the warm bread, watching the butter slide across it that just makes my mouth water!! I love a good hearty bread and this one didn't disappoint! It makes up a couple of loaves, so that is nice to be able to stick one in the freezer for later - if it lasts that long! :) I made this to pair with my Honey Glazed Pork Chops and it also went great with the Short Ribs that I had. The third loaf got smuggled home by my brother-in-law who thought that it was as good as I did!



Sunflower Seed and Honey Wheat Bread
(recipe found in Taste of Home)

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the bread flour, oil, honey, salt and 4 cups whole wheat flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in sunflower kernels and enough remaining flour to form a firm dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

Punch dough down; divide into three portions. Shape into loaves; place in three greased 8x4" loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.