BASIC HOMEMADE BREAD

Basic Homemade Bread image

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 50m

Yield 2 loaves (16 pieces each).

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
3 tablespoons sugar plus 1/2 teaspoon sugar
2-1/4 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
1 tablespoon salt
6-1/4 to 6-3/4 cups bread flour
2 tablespoons canola oil

Steps:

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 1/2 teaspoon sugar in warm water; let stand until bubbles form on surface. Whisk together remaining 3 tablespoons sugar, salt and 3 cups flour. Stir oil into yeast mixture; pour into flour mixture and beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, to form a soft dough. , Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 8-10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, 1-1/2 to 2 hours., Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough in half. Shape each into a loaf. Place in 2 greased 9x5-in. loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, 1 to 1-1/2 hours., Bake at 375° until golden brown and bread sounds hollow when tapped or has reached an internal temperature of 200°, 30-35 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.