Combine water, yeast and 2 cups of the flour in a mixing bowl. Set aside to sponge for 15-20 minutes, until risen and bubbly (warmer weather takes 15 min, cooler temps usually needs 20).
2
Add honey, oil, salt, (gluten, if using), and 4 cups of flour. Mix until dough starts to clean sides of bowl. Change to dough hook (or turn out to knead by hand), and knead 6 to 7 minutes (10 by hand). Add only a few tablespoons of flour at a time if dough sticks to sides, being careful not to add too much.
3
Form into two loaves and place in greased 9x5" pans. Allow to rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes, or 15-30 min. longer if needed to reach ½ to 1-inch above pans (i.e., cold kitchens may need the longer time). Preheat oven to 350 degrees ten minutes before rising time is done.
4
Bake for 30 minutes, rotating halfway through if needed.
5
Immediately remove from pans to cool on a rack. Allow to completely cool before slicing.
