Dissolve the yeast in water in a large mixing bowl. Add in the buttermilk, 2 ½ cups of flour, melted shortening, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Blend everything for 30 seconds on low speed. Then stir in remaining flour by hand. The dough should remain soft and slightly sticky.
Place the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5 minutes or about 200 turns.
Shape the dough into loaves or rolls, as desired. Then grease the top portion.
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm draft-free area for about 1 hour until it doubles in size. Then heat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Bake the loaves in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes (25 to 30 minutes for rolls).
If your bread is adequately baked, eat it with some coffee any spread of your preference. Enjoy!