French Bread

French Bread Recipe from I Heart Naptime

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water , about 105°F
• 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
• 5 cups (650 g) all-purpose flour , or bread flour (add more as needed)
• 2 ½ teaspoons table salt or fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Melted salted butter , optional

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes, or until it begins to foam.
2. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups flour and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture on medium-low speed or by hand. Knead in 1/2 cup of the remaining flour in increments until the dough is smooth but not sticky (depending on climate you could use more or less than 5 cups). Add more flour as needed.
3. Rub the olive oil around the dough ball, cover the bowl with a towel and let rest 15 to 30 minutes. If you have more time, let rise up to 1 hour.
4. Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and divide it in half. Set one half aside. Roll the other half into a rectangle (about 15 inches). Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a cylinder.
5. Turn both ends in and pinch the seams closed. Round the edges and place onto a baking sheet. Repeat with the second dough ball. Make three diagonal cuts across the top of each loaf. Cover loaves lightly with a towel. Let rise 30 to 60 minutes (the longer the better, if you have the time).
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Bake 17 to 23 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. When you knock on it, it should sound hollow. If it’s browning too fast, lightly cover with foil and lower the temperature to 375°F.
7. Brush the top with melted butter, if desired. Slice and serve while warm.