Easy French Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Mix water, yeast, sugar and butter and let stand until bubbly (about 1/2 hour).
2. 2
   Add egg, salt and about 5 cups of flour, a cup at a time.
3. 3
   Transfer to floured surface and knead in remaining flour until smooth.
4. 4
   Place in an oiled bowl for an hour or more, until doubled.
5. 5
   Punch down dough and divide dough in half.
6. 6
   Shape into loaves and place in oiled loaf pans.
7. 7
   Let sit until double, about an hour.
8. 8
   Bake at 375° for 20 minutes.
9. 9
   Makes 2 oblong loaves.