Slow Cooker Herb Bread Recipe

Directions:

1. Preheat slow cooker unit, without the crock, on high.
2. Grease slow crock very well and line the bottom with a greased round of parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle interior of crock with cornmeal.
4. Stir yeast and sugar into 1/2 cup of the water, set in a warm place and let stand for 10 minutes or until very foamy.
5. Place flour in large bowl and mix in the herbs and salt.
6. Make a well in the centre and add the yeast mixture, remaining water and oil.
7. Mix by hand until a ragged dough forms.
8. Knead the dough on a well-floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic (add up to 3/4 cup additional flour as needed to prevent sticking).
9. Place dough in the crock and brush the top with the milk.
10. Let stand in warm place for 5 minutes.
11. Place crock in slow cooker unit, cover and bake on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until the dough springs back when lightly pressed on top and the sides of the loaf are browned.
12. Carefully remove crock and place on dry surface (otherwise crock may crack), allow to stand for 5 minutes, turn crock upside down and give it a sharp, quick shake to release loaf.
13. Cool completely before slicing.