Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature and are measured exactly.
Bring the liquid to the correct temperature.
Grease a 9-1/4 x5-1/4-inch (23x13-cm) loaf pan, two 8-1/2 x4- 1/2-inch (22x11-cm) loaf pans, or a baking sheet.
Stir the sugar into the warm milk or water and sprinkle the yeast over the liquid.
Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes or until the surface is frothy.
Stir gently to moisten any dry particles remaining an top.
Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl.
Melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
Lightly beat the butter and whole egg into the yeast mixture.
Beat this yeast mixture into the flour mixture using a large wooden spoon.
Continue beating until a dough is formed.