Bread

This bread recipe is our favorite. It is a little tricky the first time, but it is worth the effort!

*this recipe makes 5-6 loaves. The halved recipe is in paranthesis. The italic is what I use to make breadsticks.

Combine:
4 c. scalded milk (2 c.) 1 c.
2/3-3/4 c. sugar (1/3 c.) 1/4 c.
2 Tbs. salt (1 Tbs.) 1/2 Tbs
generous 1/2 c. shortening (1/4 c.) 1/8 c.

When shortening is melted add:
1 1/4 c. cold water (5/8 c.) 1/4 c.+a little bit

Soften 3 Tbs. yeast in 1 c. warm water (1 1/2 Tbs. and 1/2 c.) 3/4 Tbs. and 1/4 c.

Beat milk mixture with 2-3 c. flour (1-1 1/2 c.) 1/2-3/4 c.
Add yeast mixture
Mix thoroughly with 3 more cups flour (1 1/2 c.) 3/4 c.

Rest 10-15 minutes.
Add 6 c. flour (3 c.) 1 1/2 c.
Knead 5 minutes.
(I always add more flour or the dough is too sticky.)

Shape into 5-6 loaves.
Let rise.
Bake 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees, then turn down to 375 when you put the bread in.

[from Stephanie Goold]