Basic Whole Wheat Bread

This deep brown bread is tender and moist. It is great for sandwiches , or try it toasted and spread with jam at breakfast.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 45 mins
• Serves: 16
• Yields: 16 slices

Ingredients

• 1  cup warm water
• 2 1⁄2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1  tablespoon vital wheat gluten
• 1 1⁄2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2  tablespoons canola oil
• 1  tablespoon  orange juice
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1 1⁄2 cups bread flour

Directions

1. In a large bowl, put water and add yeast. Stir to dissolve.
2. Add brown sugar, gluten and whole wheat flour. Beat well. Let yeast develop for about 10 minutes.
3. Add oil, orange juice and salt, mix thoroughly.
4. Add 1 cup bread flour, beat well. Work in the remaining bread flour to form a soft dough.
5. Turn out to a lightly floured surface and knead 6 to 8 minutes, or until dough is smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a large oiled bowl and turn to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm, draft free place about one hour, or until doubled in bulk.
7. Punch dough down. Form it into a log. Place in a greased 9X5X3 - inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise45 minutes, or until nearly doubled.
8. Bake loaf in a preheated oven ( 375º F ) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
9. Let it cool on a wire rack.