Standard Fat-free Bread

Combine bread flour, whole wheat flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and powdered skim milk in a large mixing bowl.

Pour hot water into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring no dry flour remains.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in the same bowl, then cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) while the dough rises.

Punch down the dough to release excess gas, then shape it into a round or oblong loaf.

Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet or in a bread pan, cover loosely with a cloth, and let it rise for 10 minutes.

Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or lame if desired, then bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Remove the loaf from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.