A delightful homemade bread recipe with a touch of honey for sweetness and a soft, fluffy texture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the yeast and warm water.
Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
Add the honey, sugar, softened butter, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
Use a dough hook attachment if available for easier mixing.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
A warm, draft-free environment is ideal for proofing the dough.
Punch down the dough, divide it into two portions, and shape each into a loaf.
Shaping the dough evenly ensures uniform baking.
Place the loaves in greased loaf pans, cover, and let rise until the dough reaches the top of the pans.
Covering the pans prevents the dough from drying out during the second rise.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Check the bread's doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf.
Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bread from becoming soggy.