Step 1

Weigh your flour; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.

Step 2

, Mix and then knead the dough until it’s smooth and bouncy; this will take 5 to 6 minutes on medium-low speed of a stand mixer.

Step 3

, Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 4

, Lightly grease a 9” x 5” loaf pan.

Step 5

, Shape the dough into a 9” log and place it into the prepared pan. Cover the pan loosely with a lightly greased piece of plastic wrap or a reusable cover.

Step 6

, Let the bread rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until it crowns about 1” over the rim of the pan.

Step 7

, Toward the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 8

, Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes, until it’s mahogany brown; a digital thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf will read 190°F.

Step 9

, Remove the bread from the oven, turn it out onto a rack, and allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Step 10

, Store leftover bread, well wrapped, for several days at room temperature; freeze for longer storage.