I found this super easy, five ingredient bread in Taste of Home Magazine. It was easy to mix and only had an hour and a half rise time. Only after killing my arms kneading for 6 minutes did I think to myself, “Doesn’t my bread machine have a knead only function?” I’ll use that next time and save myself the aching arms.

Italian Bread

• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, salt and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour to form a soft dough.
• Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
• Punch dough down. Turn onto a floured surface; divide in half. Shape each portion into a loaf. Place each loaf seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. With a sharp knife, make four shallow slashes across top of each loaf.
• Bake at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. Yield: 2 loaves (12 slices each).

Tips: You could add garlic, thyme, rosemary, dried onion flakes, or shredded cheese to this bread.

This makes wonderful paninis and grilled cheese sandwiches.