1 1/4 c. warm water
1 pkg. active dry yeast
2 tbsp. soft shortening
2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. sugar
3 c. sifted flour

Pour warm water into large mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast over water, stir until dissolved. Add shortening, salt, sugar and 1 1/2 cups flour.

Beat 2 minutes at medium speed of electric mixer. Stop mixer and scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. Stir in remaining flour and beat with a spoon until smooth, 1 1/2 minutes. Scrape batter from sides of bowl.

Cover dough with a clean cloth and let rise in a warm place, free from draft until doubled in bulk, 30 minutes or longer.

When batter has risen, stir down by beating about 25 strokes. Spread batter in a greased loaf pan (9x5x3-inch). Batter will be sticky.

Let rise in warm place until batter reaches 1/4" from top of pan, about 40 minutes.

Bake in preheated 375°F for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown. When done, brush top with butter while still hot.