Classic Homemade Bread

This recipe will guide you through making a classic homemade bread that is fluffy on the inside and golden brown on the outside. It requires simple ingredients and is a perfect choice for any occasion.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
2. Add the butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingers to rub it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the water while mixing the dough with a wooden spoon or your hands until it comes together into a sticky but manageable dough. Note: You may need slightly more or less water depending on the humidity in your kitchen.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
6. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles and then shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a rectangle and tightly rolling it up from one end.
7. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, cover it with the kitchen towel, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes or until it reaches the top of the pan.
8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked classic homemade bread as it is, or use it to make sandwiches or toast it with butter and jam.