Homemade French Bread

 

I love making bread, but there is something about yeasty breads that is a little daunting.  I think it goes back to a failed batch of cinnamon rolls that refused to rise.  I blame faulty yeast.

So, I was pleasantly surprised with how simple this french bread recipe was to put together and pull off.  Another one of my granny's recipes, it makes two loaves and tastes delicious!

You will need:

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 5 3/4 cup flour
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 1 unbeaten egg white

Sprinkle the yeast over the water in a medium-large bowl.  Add the sugar, salt, and 3 cups of flour and beat until smooth and shiny.

Add 2 1/2 cups more of the flour and knead for 5-6 minutes.  Place the mass of dough into a large, greased bowl and allow to double in bulk in a warm place.

Punch down the dough.  Then, divide the dough into two balls.  Form the balls into two long loaves.  Make cuts 3/4 inches deep and 1/2 inch apart.

Place the loaves on a baking sheet and, again, allow to double in bulk.  Then, bake at 425 degrees for 30 minutes.  Remove the loaves and brush the tops with the egg white.  Bake for another 2 minutes.

John and I enjoyed this for breakfast with jam and butter.  It also made several delicious grilled sandwiches (pumpkin, mozzarella, and hazelnut butter was my personal favorite.

Enjoy!