French Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
2. 2
   Add sugar, salt, butter and 2 cups flour.
3. 3
   Beat with a spoon until thoroughly mixed.
4. 4
   Gradually add remaining flour until dough is easy to handle.
5. 5
   Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 10 minutes or until dough is elastic and not sticky.
6. 6
   Place in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap.
7. 7
   Let rise in a warm place until double in size, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
8. 8
   Punch down and place on lightly floured surface.
9. 9
   Divide into 2 pieces.
10. 10
    Shape each piece into a long narrow loaf about 14 inches long.
11. 11
    Lightly grease inside of Ekco French bread pan; sprinkle 1 teaspoon cornmeal in each section.
12. 12
    Shake pan to distribute evenly.
13. 13
    Place loaves in pan.
14. 14
    Make sure the loaves do not come any closer than 1 1/2 inches to end of pan.
15. 15
    With a sharp knife, make 3 or 4 diagonal 1/4-inch deep slashes on the top of each loaf.
16. 16
    Do not cover.
17. 17
    Let rise in a warm place until double in size, about 45 minutes.
18. 18
    Bake in preheated 375° oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
19. 19
    Remove from pan at once.