Easy Batter Bread

Posted in reply to a message board request. This is the recipe i used (over 40 years ago) when i made my first loaf of yeast bread. Its very simple to make, and produces a good, basic white bread for sandwiches and/or toast. If memory serves, the recipe was from the side of the hecker's unbleached flour sack. Prep time does not include the 1 to 2 hour rising time.

Steps

In a large bowl , dissolve yeast in warm water.

Stir sugar into yeast / water mixture , let mixture sit until tiny bubbles start to form.

Add butter , salt and half the flour.

With electric mixer on medium speed , beat batter for 2 minutes.

Add remaining flour , stirring by hand until well blended and smooth.

Cover bowl with a tea towel , and let the batter rise in a warm draft free place for 30-60 minutes or until doubled.

Beat the batter by hand , about 25 strokes.

Spread batter evenly into a greased 8x3 or 9x4 inch loaf pan.

Smooth out the top of the loaf by patting it with your floured hand.

Cover pan , and let batter rise again until dough has reached the top of the pan.

Bake in a preheated 375f oven for 45-50 minutes , or until the loaf sounds hollow when the top is lightly tapped.

Remove from pan.

For a softer crust , brush the top of the hot loaf with butter.

Cool on a wire rack.

Bread slices best when it is cooled.

Ingredients

active dry yeast, warm water, unbleached white flour, unsalted butter, salt, sugar