Classic Italian Bread

 Classic Italian Bread

Ingredients:

-1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast

-2 cups of warm water (110° to 115°)

-1 teaspoon of sugar

-1 teaspoon of sugar

-2 teaspoons of salt

-5-1/2 cups of all-purpose flour

Directions:

1. 1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, salt and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. 2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. 3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a floured surface; divide in half. Shape each portion into a loaf. Place each loaf seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
4. 4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°. With a sharp knife, make 4 shallow slashes across top of each loaf. Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.