1 pkg. yeast
5 3/4 to 6 1/4 c. sifted flour, plain
2 1/4 c. milk
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. shortening
1 lg. mixing bowl

In large mixing bowl: Combine yeast and 2 1/2 cups flour. Heat milk, sugar, salt and shortening until melted. Add to dry mixture. Beat low 1/2 minute, scraping sides. Beat 3 minutes on high. Stir in enough flour to make moderately stiff dough.

Turn on lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth (8 to 10 minutes). Shape in ball; place in lightly greased bowl, turn once to greased side. Cover, let rise in warm place about 1 1/4 hours. Punch down.

Cut in 2 portions. Shape each in smooth ball; Cover, let rise 10 minutes. Shape in loaves; place in 2 greased loaf pans. Cover, let rise until double (45 to 60 minutes). Bake at 400 degrees for 35 minutes or until done. Butter tops if desired.