Old-Time Bread

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105°F to 115°F)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and turn it over to coat the top. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Punch the dough down and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf in a greased 9-inch round cake pan.
5. Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for another hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brush the top of the loaf with the melted butter. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown.
7. Remove the loaf from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Interesting Facts

• This recipe is an American classic, and it has been enjoyed for generations.
• The key to a perfect loaf is kneading the dough enough to make the gluten strands in the flour form.
• The butter brushed on top of the loaf gives it a golden-brown crust.