Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Stir in 4 cups of flour, one cup at a time.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- If the dough is too sticky, gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth, soft, and elastic.
- Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer using the dough hook for about 6–8 minutes.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
- Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaves
- Punch down the dough to release the air.
- Divide it into 2 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a loaf.
- Place each loaf into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Cover the pans loosely.
- Let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it crowns about 1 inch above the rim of the pans.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaves for 30–35 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.
- The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, or reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
Step 8: Finish
- Remove the bread from the pans immediately.
- Brush the tops with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust (optional).
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Serving Ideas
- Toasted with butter and jam
- Peanut butter and honey sandwiches
- French toast
- Grilled cheese
- Garlic bread
- Homemade sandwiches
Storage
- Store in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for 3–4 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy use.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
- Make sure the milk and water are warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Add flour gradually—too much flour can make the bread dense.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place.
- For an extra-soft crust, brush the loaf with butter as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Enjoy this classic homemade bread fresh from the oven with a generous spread of butter—it’s simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious! 🍞🧈
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