There is nothing better than freshly baked bread. This is a very simple easy recipe that anyone can do. It is even easier if you have a big stand-up mixer - but it’s not necessary. I just want to over-emphasize that you really can do this! It’s going to look like a lot of work… the instruction part is long… but it really is easy. I promise!

Also, don’t be bummed if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.. (who really does anyways?) All you need to do is add 1 TBS. of vinegar to every 1 cup of milk. Although, this is only to be used for baking - don’t drink it! Let the milk sit for about 10 minutes after you’ve added the vinegar, before you use it. I used the recipe found here.

Equipment you’ll need:

• Two loaf pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 5 1/2 cups bread flour

Instructions:

Ok.. here we go. If this is your first time baking bread, have no worries, this is going to be fun and easy. The one thing I always have to remind myself when making bread is be patient! Now, we’re ready to begin. Measure out the water in a measuring glass. Open the packages of yeast, and dump it in the water. Stick the glass in the microwave (without turning it on) and let it sit for about 10 minutes or so. What you are doing is called “proofing” the yeast - or basically you are making the yeast come alive! You’ll know when it’s done when there is a layer of foam at the top and it looks like little fireworks inside the glass. Now, place the butter or margarine and buttermilk in a small saucepan. Heat slowly until butter or margarine has melted - cool to lukewarm.

Next, place sugar, salt, baking soda, buttermilk mixture, and yeast in large mixing bowl (or your KitchenAid or any stand up mixer). Add 3 cups flour one cup at a time, and mix with the dough hook attachment of an electric mixer. Gradually add the remaining flour while continuing to mix. When dough is not sticky (and this could take awhile), turn out on a lightly floured surface. Knead for several minutes, until the dough is soft and smooth. (this step can also be done in your stand up mixer - just keep the dough hook on and let it go for about 10 minutes.) You will know when it is done when you can poke you finger at the dough and it retains it’s shape. Once that is ready to go, place in a greased bowl, and turn over once.  Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size in a warm area.

Once it has risen, punch down the dough with your hands. Divide evenly, and shape into 2 loaves. Place in two well greased loaf pans. We’re going to allow this to sit again in a warm place until the dough has risen one inch above pans.

Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Loaves are done when nicely brown and when you tap on the top they have a hollow sound.