Classic French Bread

By Lv2Cook

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast ( 1 package)
• 1 cup warm water (105º to 115º)
• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 large egg white

Details

Servings 1

Preparation

Step 1

Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a small bowl; let stand 5 minutes.

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Place the flour and salt in a food processor, and pulse 2 times or until blended. With the food processor on, slowly add yeast mixture through food chute, and process until the dough forms a ball. Process for 1 additional minute. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead lightly 4 to 5 times.

Place dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top. Cover dough, and let rise in a warm place (85º), free from drafts, 45 minutes or until doubled in bulk. 4. Punch dough down, and shape into a 6-inch round loaf. Place loaf on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Cover dough and let rise 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk.

Preheat oven to 450º.

Uncover dough, and make 3 diagonal cuts 1/4-inch deep across top of loaf using a sharp knife. Combine 1 tablespoon water and egg white, and brush mixture over top of loaf. Bake at 450º for 20 minutes or until loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Serving Size: 1 [1 1/2-ounce] slice