Homemade Bread

Steps

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine yeast, warm water, and a pinch of the sugar or honey. Let rest 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix to combine.
3. Add 1 more cup of flour and mix. With mixer running, add more flour ½ cup at a time until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is smooth and slightly tacky.
4. Knead the dough for 4-5 minutes on medium speed, or by hand for 5-8 minutes.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours.
6. Grease two 9x5-inch loaf pans with cooking spray.
7. Punch down dough to remove air bubbles. Divide into two equal portions, shape into logs, and place in prepared pans.
8. Cover pans loosely and let dough rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until risen about 1 inch above the pans.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake bread for 30-33 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Invert loaves onto a wire rack, brush tops with butter, and let cool at least 10 minutes before slicing.
11. Store cooled bread in an airtight container for 2-3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days refrigerated.