In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes, until it becomes slightly foamy.
Add the melted butter and salt, then stir to combine.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. When the dough becomes thick enough to handle, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for approximately 8–10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if necessary, but avoid adding too much—the dough should remain soft.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Gently punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them into greased loaf pans.
Cover the pans and let the dough rise again for approximately 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter and bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until beautifully golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when lightly tapped.
Remove the bread from the pans and brush the tops with a little more melted butter while they’re warm.
Allow the loaves to cool slightly before slicing.
The Best Part
There’s nothing quite like spreading butter over a warm slice of freshly baked bread. Enjoy it for breakfast, make sandwiches with it, or serve it alongside soups and hearty dinners.
For the softest texture, store completely cooled bread in an airtight container or bag.
Soft, fluffy, golden, and wonderfully fragrant—this homemade bread is simple enough to make again and again.
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