Ingredients:

  • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit until frothy (about 5-10 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt until well combined.
  3. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the melted butter and activated yeast mixture.
  4. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm environment until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  7. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or your desired form.
  8. Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and rise again until doubled (30-45 minutes).
  9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.