Sunflower and California Raisin Loaf

1. Fifteen (15) to eighteen (18) hours before final mixing, combine ingredients for sponge and mix on low for 6 minutes until sponge is 77°F. Bulk ferment 15 to 18 hours in refrigerator at 40°F.
2. Meanwhile, combine raisins and currants with just enough rum to cover; let stand at room temperature.

Final mixing:

1. Combine sponge, flour, yeast, salt, water and sugar; mix on low for 5 minutes, then on medium for 4 minutes more. Add butter; mix on low for 5 minutes, then on medium for 3 minutes. 2
2. Add raisins and currants; mix on low for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Bulk ferment for 30 minutes at 85°F.

Shaping:

1. Divide and scale dough into 2-pound pieces; bench rest for 30 minutes.
2. Shape each loaf into a long oval; spray with water and dip into a mixture of sunflower seeds, flax seeds and sesame seeds. Proof 50 minutes at 90ºF.
3. Bake at 425ºF with steam for 35 to 40 minutes.

* See recipe