Easy American Bread

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.

2. Add 3 cups of the all-purpose flour and the salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined. The dough will be sticky at this point.

3. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. You may not need to use the entire cup of flour.

4. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter.

7. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.

8. Cover the loaf pan with the kitchen towel and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.

9. Brush the melted butter over the top of the dough.

10. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.