Over medium heat, combine cold water, butter, sugar and salt. Stir until butter is melted. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and stir in the buttermilk
2
Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water. Allow liquid mixture to cool. When it is just warm to the touch, add the dissolved yeast. Add two cups of flour and stir with a wooden spoon until smooth.
3
Gradually blend in additional flour until the dough is too stiff to stir. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead, continuing to add enough flour until the dough holds together well (may not need all the flour). Continue kneading until the dough is soft and no longer sticks to the work surface. Place in greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rest until doubled.
4
Punch down the dough and put out onto floured surface. Generously grease two bread pans (9x5-inch). Shape dough into two loaves and place in pans. Cover again and allow to rise.
5
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until crust is nicely browned. Cool on rack for 5 minutes before turning out.
