Simple Bread
Homemade Bread is one of my favorite foods of all time. There is nothing quite like a warm slice of fresh bread served with a thick pat of butter on top.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups warm water 110 degrees F/45 degrees C
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 5-6 cups flour You can use all-purpose flour OR bread flour!
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large bowl, dissolve the 1 TBSP of the sugar in warm water and then stir in the yeast. Allow to proof until yeast resembles a creamy foam, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the remaining sugar, salt, and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Dough should be tacky and clean the sides of the bowl save for a small part at the bottom. Too much flour added in yields a dry loaf of bread, so if you’re worried you added too much, add a bit more hot water, until you get the correct consistency.
- Knead dough for 7 minutes. Place in a well-oiled bowl, and turn dough to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
- Punch the dough down. Knead for 1 minute and divide in half. Shape into loaves and place into two greased 9×5 inch loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until the dough has risen 1 inch above the pans.
- Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30-40 minutes. Cool, brush with butter, and enjoy!
