Honey Whole Wheat Sunflower Seed Bread

This is such a hearty and delicious sandwich loaf.  My family loves it.  It is sturdy, yet soft and studded with sunflower seeds.  It is so delicious that I am kicking myself for not making it more often!

Honey Whole Wheat Sunflower Seed Bread

1 1/2 cups warm water

1/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup honey

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

3 1/2 to 4 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (start with the lesser amount, then add more if needed)

1/2 cup sunflower seed kernels (shelled sunflower seeds)

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

If using a bread machine, place all of the ingredients in the machine according to manufacturer's directions.  Program the machine for a dough cycle.  If mixing by hand, combine all of the ingredients to form a dough.  It should be slightly tacky but not sticky .  Knead until smooth.  Place dough in a greased bowl and cover.  Let rise for about 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350F.  Grease 2 8x4 inch loaf pans.  When the dough cycle is complete, and the dough has risen, punch the dough down and divide into 2 pieces.  Shape into loaves and place in the prepared pans.  Cover and let rise about 30 minutes, or until doubled.  Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.  Remove from the oven and transfer bread to wire racks to cool completely.  Makes 2 8x4 inch loaves.

Enjoy!  -Cardamommy