French Bread

Name: French Bread
Ingredients: 1-1/4 cups water (70° to 80°); 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3-1/2 cups bread flour; 1-1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon cornmeal; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon water; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted, optional

9 ingredients

5 steps

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups water (70° to 80°)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3-1/2 cups bread flour
1-1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon cornmeal
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted, optional

Directions

1

In bread machine pan, place the first five ingredients in the order suggested by the manufacturer. Select dough setting (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or flour if needed).
2

When cycle is completed, turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide in half. Roll each portion into a 10-in. x 8-in. rectangle. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; pinch seams to seal.
3

Sprinkle a greased
4

with cornmeal; place loaves seam side down on prepared pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 minutes.
5

Whisk egg and water; brush over loaves. With a sharp knife, make four shallow slashes across the top of each loaf. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.