Beer Bread (whole wheat or white)

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. 2
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar. (If using honey, add with the beer and water.) Stir in add-ins, if using. (As a guideline, I use about a quarter cup of seeds, a third to a half cup of nuts, a half to a full cup of cheese, and/or one teaspoon of dried herbs.)
3. 3
   Pour in the beer and water, and stir just until the flour mixture is all moistened.
4. 4
   Spread the dough into the prepared loaf pan. (Tip: If time allows, let the batter sit for 15 to 20 minutes before baking. I find this slightly enhances the rise.)
5. 5
   Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until just cooked through. (Helpful hint: To perfectly gauge doneness, the internal temperature should read 200℉ when taken with a quick-read thermometer.)
6. 6
   Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the melted butter over the top, if using. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then remove to a rack and cool completely.
7. 7
   I love plain beer bread with a smear of butter and/or strawberry jam and toast the leftovers.