Country’s White Bread

 

Ingredients:

• 1 package (2 ¼ tsp) dry active yeast

• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)

• 2 ½ – 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided

• Cooking spray or extra oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let the mixture stand for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Make the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add the egg, sugar, salt, oil, and 2 ½ cups of flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add the remaining ½ cup of flour until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

3. First Rise: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Knead it briefly, then shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.

5. Second Rise: Cover the pan with the cloth and let the dough rise again in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan.

6. Bake: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

7. Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.