Bill’s Brainpower Bread

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   In a small bowl, combine 1 cup lukewarm water, 2 tablespoons active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon honey. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Step 2.

   In a large mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups whole wheat flour, 2 cups warm water, 1 cup dry milk, and ½ cup honey. Add the yeast mixture and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon for 100 strokes.

3. Step 3.

   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, until bubbly and doubled.

4. Step 4.

   Stir in the remaining 3 cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, 1 beaten egg, and 4 teaspoons kosher salt. Add 1 cup cooked oatmeal, ½ cup cornmeal, ½ cup flaxseed meal, and ½ cup wheat germ; mix until combined. Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts and optional seeds (½ cup sunflower seeds and ¼ cup poppy seeds).

5. Step 5.

   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding additional flour as needed, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 50-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

6. Step 6.

   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Punch down the dough and transfer to a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 20-25 minutes, until puffy.

7. Step 7.

   Bake for 1 hour, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the pan and let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.