Classic French Bread

Easy and delicious. It can be made as a round loaf or a baguette. Love the smell of fresh bread baking.

Classic French Bread
Courtesy of Cooking Light

1 package dry yeast (2 1/2 teaspoons)
1 cup warm water (105° to 115°)
3 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon water
1 large egg white

Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a small bowl; let stand 5 minutes.

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Place the flour and salt in a food processor, and pulse 2 times or until blended. With the food processor on, slowly add yeast mixture through food chute, and process until the dough forms a ball. Process for 1 additional minute. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead lightly 4 to 5 times.

Place dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top. Cover dough, and let rise in a warm place (85°F), free from drafts, 45 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

Punch dough down, and shape into a 6-inch round loaf. Place loaf on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Cover dough and let rise 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Uncover dough, and make 3 diagonal cuts 1/4-inch deep across top of loaf using a sharp knife. Combine 1 tablespoon water and egg white, and brush mixture over top of loaf. Bake for 20 minutes or until loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Note: To make a baguette, let the bread dough rise once. Punch dough down, and roll into an 18 x 9-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Roll up the dough starting at the longer edge, pressing down firmly to eliminate any air pockets; then pinch seam and edges to seal. Cover the dough, let rise, and bake according to the recipe instructions at left.