Fluffy White Bread

Measure yeast directly into bread machine pan.

Measure milk into a microwave-safe container. Add honey and sugar, then microwave until warm (not hot). Stir to incorporate ingredients. Pour the warm milk mixture on top of the yeast.

Now let those yeasty beasties enjoy their warm bath while you prepare and mix the rest of the ingredients. They like warm baths, so take your time!

Measure the bread flour, butter, salt, and vital wheat gluten into a bowl.

Did you take your time? If not, dance around your kitchen, sing a showtune, or organize a cupboard. You want the yeast to relax in the pan for around 10 minutes before you put it to work.

Once it’s ready, add the dry ingredients to the loaf pan on top of the milk mixture. Pop it into the bread machine, then start it up. Use the Basic setting, 1-1/2 lb loaf. I bake mine with a medium crust and it takes 3-1/2 hours.