Whole Wheat Braids

INGREDIENTS
3 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
3 cups warm water (110 degrees F to 115 degrees F)
1/4 cup of gluten

2t. bread enhancer

1/3 cup honey
3 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon salt
5 cups whole wheat flour
4 cups whole wheat flour

DIRECTIONS
In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, eggs, oil, salt and whole wheat flour; beat until smooth. Add enough all-purpose flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl; turn once to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch dough down. Divide into nine pieces; shape each piece into a 14-in. x rope and braid three ropes together. Place in three greased 8-in.x 4-in. x 2-in. loaf pan. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes. Remove from pans to cool on wire racks.
Nutrition Facts: One slice equals 112 calories, 2 g fat (0 saturated fat), 13 mg cholesterol, 138 mg sodium, 20 g carbohydrate, 0 fiber, 3 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.

Cooks note: the gluten and bread enhancer are optional.