Whey Protein Power Bread

1In a small bowl, combine warm water (1 cup) and honey (¼ cup). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour (2 cups), whey protein powder (1 cup), salt (1 tsp), garlic powder (½ tsp), and onion powder (½ tsp). Mix well to combine all dry ingredients.

3Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with the olive oil (¼ cup). Stir until a dough begins to form.

4Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using, knead in the sunflower seeds (¼ cup) during the last few minutes of kneading.

5Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

6Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

7Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.

8Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

9Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.