Best Homemade White Bread

INGREDIENTS:

Makes 2 Loaves

6 cups (750g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)

2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

2 ½ tsp salt

3 tbsp sugar

2 cups warm whole milk (110°F/43°C)

3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Optional:

1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

2 tbsp softened butter (for brushing after baking)

DIRECTIONS:

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5-10 mins until frothy.

2️⃣ Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt.

Pour in yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead 8-10 mins by hand (or 5-7 mins in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.

3️⃣ First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1-1.5 hrs until doubled.

4️⃣ Shape & Second Rise

Punch down dough, divide in half, and shape into loaves.

Place in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans, cover, and rise 45-60 mins until domed …