3 pkgs. dry yeast
1 tsp. sugar
1 c. water
3 3/4 lbs. flour (1800 grams)
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. melted butter
2 c. lukewarm water
1 tbsp. + 2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. flour

Mix dry yeast, sugar, and water together and allow to proof (rise) while measuring other ingredients. Into a large 10 quart bowl (warmed) sift the flour. Use hand to push the flour to sides of bowl, making a well. Mix together and pour into the well the sugar, melted butter, lukewarm water and salt. Stir the liquid ingredients in well with a large spoon, mixing and stirring some of the flour to make a soft batter in center of flour. Then add the proofed yeast and stir again with spoon.

When dough changes from soft batter to a stiff dough and becomes too stiff to mix with spoon, use hand and knead and mix for 20 minutes. During this kneading, work in additional 3/4 cup flour. When finished, the dough will not stick to hands. Grease top of dough and cover. Let rise in warm place 2 or 2 1/2 hours. Punch down, turn out on board. Knead a few minutes, then divide into 4 portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and put each into a greased loaf pan.

Cover with a cloth and allow to rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours in a warm place. Bake at 400 degrees the first 15 minutes, then reduce to 325 degrees, bake 15 minutes more.

Makes 4 loaves.