Country’s White Bread

This recipe yields a classic, soft, and flavorful white bread perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter and jam.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast:

   • In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and let stand for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix Dough:

   • Add egg, remaining sugar, salt, and oil to yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
   • Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, stirring or using a dough hook.
   • Continue adding flour until dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.

3. Knead Dough:

   • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface.
   • Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise:

   • Grease a large bowl with oil.
   • Place dough in bowl, turning to coat.
   • Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape Dough:

   • Punch down dough.
   • Shape into a loaf by flattening, folding sides, and rolling up tightly.
   • Place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second Rise:

   • Cover loaf pan and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until risen above the pan edge.

7. Bake Bread:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Cool and Serve:

   • Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Slice and enjoy!