Start by pouring the warm water into a small bowl. It should feel just a bit warm to touch, about 110°F. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm water. Let this mixture stand for about 5-8 minutes until it froths up, revealing those active yeast creatures coming to life.

In a larger mixing bowl—preferably glass or plastic (avoid metal)—combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir with a wooden spoon until well combined. The sugar will feed the yeast as it starts to work its magic.

Pour in the cup of milk next. Follow that by adding the yeast mixture. Stir well until everything is combined. You want a smooth and slightly silky batter. Transfer this mixture into a large gallon-sized zippered plastic bag, seal it tightly, and do not refrigerate! Allow it to sit out at room temperature. This is Day 1 of your starter journey.

For Days 2 through 9, simply mash the bag each day to mix the ingredients and release any air bubbles. It’s like giving your starter a little love! Just squeeze the bag gently and enjoy the process of nurturing.

On Day 6, open the bag and add 1 cup each of flour, sugar, and milk. Be sure to mash the bag again until everything is mixed well. This step is crucial for keeping your starter active and bubbling with love.

On Day 10, pour the contents of the bag into a large non-metal bowl. Once it’s all out, add in ½ cup each of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and milk. Mix thoroughly with your trusty wooden spoon until combined.

Now it’s time to divide the magic! Scoop out 1 cup portions of this starter, placing each into separate zippered plastic bags. You should have about 4-5 bags. Seal them tightly and share them with friends, including the instructions so they can join in the fun. Keep one for yourself to bake!

Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a large bowl, combine your reserved starter with:

- 1 cup vegetable oil

- 3 large eggs

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

- 2 small boxes of instant vanilla pudding

- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts for a delicious crunch

Stir this mixture until just combined; you don’t want to overmix it—just enough to get it all together.

Grab two 8 1/2" x 4 1/2" loaf pans and spray them generously with cooking spray. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon. Dust your greased pans with half of this delightful mixture; this will make the loaves golden and sweet!

Divide your batter evenly between the two prepared pans, making sure to give them a gentle shake to level the batter. Now pour the remaining sugar-cinnamon mixture on top of the batter for an extra touch of sweetness.

Pop the pans into your preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end! You’ll know they’re done if a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The aroma will be intoxicating!

Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a serving dish. Let them cool completely before slicing. This waiting period builds anticipation!