In a large bowl or stand mixer add the yeast, water and a pinch of the sugar or honey. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes until foaming and bubbly.

Add remaining sugar or honey, salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix to combine.

Add another cup of flour and mix to combine. With the mixer running add more flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Mix the dough for 4-5 minutes on medium speed or knead with your hands on a lightly floured surface for 5-8 minutes.

Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover with a dish towel or plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 ½ hours.

Spray two 9x5'' bread pans generously with cooking spray on all sides.

Punch the dough down well to remove air bubbles. Divide into two equal portions and shape each ball into long logs.

Cover pans with a lightweight, dry dish towel or spray two pieces of plastic wrap generously with cooking spray and lay them over the pans. Allow dough to rise for about 45 minutes to one hour.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake bread for about 30-33 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Invert the loaves onto a wire cooling rack. Brush the tops with butter and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.