Simple White Bread

*I use fast-acting yeast that I don't have to proof because I'm usually too impatient.*

2 cups warm water (110 degrees F) ((I use a thermometer because I'm a terrible judge of heat))
2/3 cup white sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
6 cups bread flour (I used AP flour and it seemed to work fine)


In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water, and stir in yeast.

*If you use regular yeast, allow it to proof until it's foamy. If you use fast yeast, you don't need to wait.*

Mix salt and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place in a well oiled bowl and turn dough a few times to coat. Cover with damp cloth and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour

*My kitchen is so stinkin' cold in the winter I have to turn the oven on, let it heat up, and then place the bowl on the back of the stove for the entire time it needs to rise. I've been told a heating pad will work as well.*

Punch dough down and knead for a few minutes. Divide in half, shape into loaves, and place into two well oiled loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until dough has rise about 1 inch above pans.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes.

Comments: I used butter on the pans instead of oil, and they released fine. I removed them from the pans almost immediately after taking them out of the oven, and I brushed the tops with butter at that point as well.