Homemade Bread Recipe

Makes two loaves.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups warm water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1.5 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 5.5 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir vegetable oil into the yeast mixture once it’s proofed.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a large oiled bowl, turning once to coat both sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place them into greased bread pans. Cover again and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake the loaves for approximately 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.
10. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter for a soft crust.
11. Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked homemade bread!