📖 Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir until combined.
2. Using a measuring cup, add 1 3/4 cups of lukewarm water to the flour mixture. Add 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 2 large eggs. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour, if necessary.
4. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Once the dough is doubled, punch it down and transfer it back to the lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter or olive oil, and sprinkle it with some coarse sea salt (optional).
7. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
9. Note: If the top of your bread browns too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.