Oatmeal based bread, sweetened with molasses and speckled with dried fruits. Try it for the holidays or give as gifts. Would look really appealing if braided.

Fruited Holiday Bread

1 cup quick-cooking oats
2 cups boiling water
2 (1/4-ounce) packages active dry yeast or 5 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/3 cup warm water
1/2 cup molasses
2 tablespoons butter, softened
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup chopped candied citron peel, (see note)
1/4 cup chopped mixed dried fruit
1/4 cup chopped candied red cherries
6 cups all-purpose flour

1. Combine oatmeal with boiling water in a bowl; mix well and let stand for 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl dissolve yeast in warm water (105°F to 115°F / 40°C to 45°C); set aside and allow to foam, about 5 minutes.
3. Add molasses, butter and salt to oat mixture. Stir in citron, dried fruit and candied cherries until mixed; stir in yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Transfer to a floured surface; knead until dough smooth and elastic 10 minutes or until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, turning dough to grease all sides. Place in a warm place, cover and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Grease two 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pans; set aside.
5. Punch dough down to press air out and divide into two loaves. Place in prepared loaf pans; Set pans in warm, draft-free place, cover and let rise for another hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
7. Bake for 50 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

Makes 2 loaves.

Note: Citron is a citrus fruit resembling a huge, rough lemon.May be found in the baking aisle of a large grocery store, especially around the winter holidays, or at a local European gourmet or specialty food shop. If unable to find, substitute with dried fruit such as figs or plums.