In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms and all flour is incorporated.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for 4 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly.
After the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently shape the dough into a round loaf without kneading.
Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to rise again.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Optionally, lightly dust the top of the loaf with flour and make a few shallow slashes on top with a sharp knife.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.