Failproof French Bread (Bread Machine)

Marie's Note:

This makes two loaves of long baguette type French bread that has wonderful flavor and is so easy to make!

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 8

Yield: 2 loaves

• 828.06 ml bread flour
• 4.92 ml salt
• 7.08 g package active dry yeast
• 295.73 ml warm water

Directions:

1. Place ingredients in bread machine according to manufacturers directions.
2. Start machine on dough setting.
3. When dough cycle is complete, remove dough with floured hands and cut in half on floured surface.
4. Take each half of dough and roll to make a loaf about 12 inches long in the shape of French bread.
5. Place on greased baking sheet and cover with a towel.
6. Let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 450°.
8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown, turning pan around once halfway during baking.
9. Remove baked loaves to wire racks to cool.

Reviews

[Lieutenant Ducky]

This bread is the BEST! The flavor is perfectly balanced, just the right amount of salt, and the crust especially is amazing- slightly crisp, but not in the least bit heavy... I made the bread as instructed. Some people might find it helpful to know that 1/4 ounce package is equal to 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast (I buy my bread machine yeast in bulk). Thanks so much for a great recipe ; )

[LorenLou]

No lie, wonderful flavor and easy to make! We loved it. Funny, my bread-machine cookbook had a whole list of ingredients, and this wonderful bread basically had just 3! Go with this recipe, for sure!

[CookingCarol0325]

Very easy recipe. I always proof the yeast before using in the recipe. Just fill a measuring cup with the warm water and yeast with 1/2 tsp. of sugar and let set for at least 10 minutes until frothy. This is helpful if you have stored the yeast for a while and might have an ounce of doubt! I also brush the loaves with melted butter before placing in the oven as it adds flavor and a nice light golden brown crust on top. Have used this recipe several times and it is a keeper. Have also made delicious garlic bread for two by slicing off one third of the baked loaf and slicing it lengthwise so it is flat, top with melted butter, garlic powder or fresh minced garlic, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, and a little shredded mozzarella. Pop into a 400 degree oven until the cheese melts. Very yummy accompaniment for hot soup or pasta dishes :)