French Bread
(from emily8260’s recipe box)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves 10 people
Categories: Bread
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp active dry yeast
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 4 1/2 - 5 cups bread flour
Directions
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In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the salt, sugar and 2 cups of flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
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Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about one hour.
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Punch down dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide in half. Shape into 12 inch long loaves.
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Place on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
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With a sharp knife, make four shallow slashes across the top of each loaf. Brush with softened butter.
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I like to sprinkle mine with garlic powder, a tiny bit of salt and some Italian seasoning.
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Bake at 450 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.