Homemade French Bread For The Bread Machine

Step 1

Place all ingredients in bread machine in order listed by manufacturer. (My bread machine has me place wet ingredients in first, then dry.)

Step 2

Start the dough cycle.

Step 3

When dough cycle is complete remove dough and separate out into 2 equal balls of dough.

Step 4

Place dough on a lightly floured surface or stoneware pan.

Step 5

Roll out dough into a rectangle using a rolling pin. You will want to roll it to about 16 inches long and 6 inches wide.

Step 6

Once you have your rectangle shape, start from one side of the dough and roll into a loaf.

Step 7

Turn ends of loaf under on each side.

Step 8

Using a sharp knife or razor blade cut diagonal slits about 2 inches apart across the top of each loaf.

Step 9

Place loaves on stoneware pan or baking pan and cover with plastic wrap or tea towel.

Step 10

Let rise for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 11

Place loaves in a preheated 400 degree oven and bake for 20 minutes. Bake an additional 5 minutes for a more golden crust.

Step 12

Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.