Best Ever French Bread Recipe

Ingredients for Best Ever French Bread

• Warm Water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Bread Flour

How to Make Best Ever French Bread

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (105-115°F), 2 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into a baguette shape (about 12-14 inches long).
6. Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Brush the loaves with water or milk and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
9. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.