Honey Apple Croissant Loaf

Yeast Dough:

• 1 cake or tablespoon yeast

• 1 cup milk scalded, cooled to lukewarm

• ¼ cup honey

• 3 tablespoons oil or melted butter

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 cups unbleached white flour

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (do not use whole wheat pastry flour)

• 3 tablespoons melted butter

Apple Filling:

• 4 apples

• 2 tablespoons water

• ½ cup raisins

• ½ cup walnuts (optional)

• ¼ cup honey, warmed slightly

• 11/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions

1. Soften the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with milk and one teaspoon of honey. Let it sit until the yeast softens.

2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, blend the remaining honey, butter or oil, salt, and eggs. Add the softened yeast mixture and stir in the white and whole wheat flour. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured board and knead lightly, adding a small amount of flour if necessary. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until it doubles in size, about one hour.

3. Prepare the Apples: Peel, slice, and stew the apples in 2 tablespoons of water until soft. Allow them to cool slightly.

4. Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the dough into an oblong shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Brush with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

5. Add the Filling: Spread the stewed apples, raisins, and nuts over the dough. Drizzle honey over the apples and sprinkle with cinnamon.

6. Shape the Dough: Roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Place it on a greased cookie sheet and shape it into a crescent. Tuck the ends under and make a few slits on top to expose the filling. Cover and let it rise slightly in a warm place.

7. Bake: Brush the top with the remaining tablespoon of butter and bake in a 375°F oven for about 30 minutes.