Basic White Bread

Directions

• Step 1
  Place about one-third of the flour in a large bowl and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix the yeast with ¼ cup warm water, stirring well.
• Step 2
  Add the sugar, salt, and 1¾ cups water to the yeast. Add the mixture to the flour in the bowl and stir well. Cut in the shortening, using a pastry cutter or your hands. Stir in as much of the remaining flour as possible.
• Step 3
  Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding flour as necessary.
• Step 4
  Transfer the dough to a large well-greased bowl, turning to coat both sides. Cover with a damp cloth and place in a warm, draft-free area. Allow to rise until double in volume, about 1½ hours.
• Step 5
  Punch the dough down and let rise a second time until almost doubled in bulk. Grease 2 bread pans (9" x 5"). Punch dough down a second time and divide into two loaves. Shape loaves and place into prepared bread pans. Cover and let rise until almost doubled, about 2 hours.
• Step 6
  Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans and allow to cool on a rack.