World's Simplest Bread aka Turtle Bread

This recipe is from the Family Fun cookbook and is a wonderful bread to make with kids. We make ours into a turtle shape. It has become a Thanksgiving favorite to both make and eat!

2 c. warm water

1 Tbsp. active dry yeast

1 Tbsp. sugar

5 1/2 - 6 c. all-purpose flour

2 tsp. salt

Pour warm water into a large bowl. Add the yeast and sugar and whisk until dissolved.

Measure 2 cups of flour into the bowl and whisk the mixture well. Let the batter "proof" or sit for 10 minutes. If tiny bubbles appear and the batter looks slightly expanded, you're on the right track.

Stir in salt and remaining flour one cup at a time.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. (This is the kids favorite part!) Please the ball in bowl greased with oil (we like EVOO) and turn to coat. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1 -2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough, then knead it again to remove air bubbles. Either shape into a turtle (large circle for body, four smaller circles for legs, flat tail and medium ball for head - make criss-cross pattern on back with knife and use raisins for eyes) or divide dough into two portions and shape into loaves. Place on a greased pan and cover again. Let rise for another 45 minutes.

Heat oven to 400 and back for 30 minutes. Cool bread for 10 minutes, then rub with butter for a shiny finish.

Makes 2 loaves or 1 large turtle