Terrific Whole Wheat in the Breadmaker!

I developed this in a "Black&Decker All-in-one horizontal" model. The key to baking a successful 100% whole wheat loaf, I have found (at least in a machine!!) is to have the ingredients at ROOM TEMPERATURE. When they are, this dough rises high to make a light,soft loaf. It's a staple in our house, hope you enjoy!

• Ready In: 4 hrs 20 mins
• Serves: 14-16
• Yields: 14-16 slices

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups  lukewarm water
• 3⁄4 teaspoon salt (I use sea salt)
• 1⁄4 cup sugar (scant)
• 1  tablespoon olive oil or 1  tablespoon  any  cooking oil
• 3 1⁄2 cups whole wheat flour, plus
• 3  tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 2  tablespoons wheat gluten (this is essential for rising)
• 2  teaspoons  yeast, generous

Directions

1. NOTE: If you keep your whole wheat flour in the freezer (which is a good idea) be sure to remove it a few hours before-hand so it can warm to room temperature.
2. Measure the ingredients into your machine's loaf pan in the order listed. Be sure NOT to let the yeast touch the water. (By the way, I use bread machine yeast but I'm pretty sure regular yeast works too!).
3. Set it to "grain" and press start (so it should say 4:10 on the little screen).
4. When finished, remove from the machine, pull out the paddle if it's stuck in, and cover with a tea towel (to keep the crust soft) on a cooling rack. Let the loaf cool at least 20 minutes before slicing.
5. It should stay fresh 4-5 days in normal weather. We usually slice and freeze a portion of the loaf and it defrosts beautifully. Also makes lovely breadcrumbs!