Easy Whole Wheat Bread

(Tried this the other day--it was AMAZING!! Even John (who doesn't like wheat bread) enjoyed the nice, light nutty taste of this moist bread : )

3 cups warm water (or milk)
3 1/2 Tbsp. honey
1 Tbsp. active dry yeast
2 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. butter or oil
5-6 cups flour (I use at least half wheat/half white. Just adjust the ratio to your preference)

In a large bowl dissolve yeast, honey, and water. Whisk to mix and then allow to sit still until the yeast is bubbly.

Add oil, salt, and 4 cups flour. Beat 200 strokes. If using Kitchen Aid, mix on level 2 for 1 minute.

Add remaining flour or until the texture seems good (about 1/2 cup addition each time). Beat until mixed and thick (about 1 minute). (If using Kitchen Aid, mix on level 2 for approx. 2 minutes.

Knead on floured surface for 10 minutes, adding flour as you knead until the dough is good consistency (not too sticky). If using Kitchen Aid, mix on level 2 for 2 additional minutes.

Place dough in oiled bowl, cover, and place in warm spot until dough doubles in size (about an hour). I put it in the oven after I've preheated it and then turned it off, and then I leave the door cracked open so it doesn't get too hot.

Remove and punch dough down, divide into two equal pieces. Form into loaves and place in oiled and floured bread pans.

Allow to rise again in warm oven until good size (about 1 hour).

Preheat oven to 325 degrees with bread in and oven door open.

Bake 20-30 minutes or until done.

Cool in pan 5-10 minutes and remove to finish cooling. Rub butter on the top of bread loaf if desired.

*Bread can also be wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and frozen for later.

(Taken from http://clayinhishands-sarah.blogspot.com/2009/10/easy-whole-wheat-bread.html)