GERMAN DARK RYE BREAD

German Dark Rye Bread

3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 envelopes active dry yeast
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tablespoon caraway seed
2 cups water
1/3 cup molasses
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
3 to 3 1/2 cups flour

In large mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, yeast, cocoa and caraway seed until well blended.

In a saucepan, combine water, molasses, butter, sugar and salt. Heat until just warm, stirring occasionally. Add to dry mixture. Beat at low speed with electric mixer for 1/2 minute, scraping sides of bowl constantly. Beat 3 minutes at high speed. By hand, stir in enough rye flour to make a soft dough. Turn onto floured surface. Knead until smooth, about 5 minutes. Cover. Let sit 20 minutes.

Punch down and divide dough in half. Shape each half into a round loaf. Place in greased 8-inch pie plates. Brush surface of loaves with a little cooking oil. Slash tops of loaves with sharp knife. Let rise until double, 45 to 60 minutes.

Bake in a 400 degree F oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Makes 2 loaves.