Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Oats**:
Start by placing the rolled oats in a bowl. Pour the **warm water** over them and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This will soften the oats and help create a moist, tender texture in the bread.

#### 2. **Activate the Yeast**:
In a small bowl, combine the **warm milk**, **honey**, and **active dry yeast**. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.

#### 3. **Mix the Dough**:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked oats, **olive oil (or melted butter)**, **yeast mixture**, and **salt**. Stir to combine. Slowly add in the **whole wheat flour** and **all-purpose flour**, one cup at a time, stirring until the dough begins to come together. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but try not to make it too dry.

#### 4. **Knead the Dough**:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about **8-10 minutes** until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you prefer. Towards the end of kneading, fold in the **chopped walnuts**, **sesame seeds**, and **ground flaxseeds** (if using). Continue kneading until the walnuts and seeds are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

#### 5. **First Rise**:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about **1-1.5 hours**, or until it has doubled in size. If you’re short on time, you can let it rise in the oven with the light on for a warm, draft-free environment.

#### 6. **Shape the Dough**:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can also divide the dough into smaller portions and form rolls if you prefer. Place the loaf on a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.

#### 7. **Second Rise**:
Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for about **30 minutes**. The dough should rise slightly above the edge of the pan. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.

#### 8. **Bake the Bread**:
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle the top with **extra sesame seeds** for a decorative and flavorful touch. Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about **30-35 minutes**, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach about **190°F (88°C)**.

#### 9. **Cool and Serve**:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step ensures the bread finishes setting and prevents it from becoming too soft when sliced.

### Why You’ll Love Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame:

1. **Nutritious**: The combination of oats, walnuts, and sesame seeds makes this bread a great source of fiber, healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. It’s perfect for those looking to increase their nutrient intake without compromising on flavor.

2. **Flavorful**: The subtle sweetness from the honey, the nutty crunch from the walnuts, and the toasty sesame seeds create a harmonious balance of flavors that elevate the bread to a whole new level.

3. **Versatile**: This oatmeal bread is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it on its own with a spread of butter or jam, make sandwiches, or use it to complement soups and salads. It also makes an excellent breakfast or snack when toasted and topped with nut butter or fresh fruit.

4. **Homemade Goodness**: Nothing beats the aroma of fresh-baked bread. The process of baking your own bread ensures you’re getting a wholesome, preservative-free loaf, and it makes your kitchen smell amazing!

### Tips for the Best Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame:

– **Toast the Walnuts**: Lightly toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dough brings out their rich, nutty flavor and adds extra crunch to the bread.

– **Don’t Rush the Rising Time**: Make sure to allow the dough to rise fully during both the first and second rises. This ensures a light, airy texture in the finished bread.

– **Storage**: This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer shelf life, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply toast slices for a quick breakfast or snack!

### Conclusion:
**Oatmeal Bread with Walnuts and Sesame** is a delicious and healthy twist on the classic loaf. Packed with nutrients, rich in flavor, and easy to make, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as part of a hearty sandwich, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your home. So, grab your mixing bowl, get baking, and enjoy the satisfying, wholesome goodness of homemade oatmeal bread!