Easy Homemade French Bread

INGREDIENTS:

(Makes 2 loaves)

4 cups (480g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)

1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (~105°F/40°C)

2 tsp instant yeast (or 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast)

2 tsp salt

(Optional: 1 tbsp sugar for faster rise, or cornmeal for dusting.)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix the Dough (5 mins)

In a large bowl, whisk flour, yeast, and salt.

Add warm water, stir until a shaggy dough forms.

2. First Rise (1 hour)

Cover with a towel and let rise at room temp for 1 hour (or until doubled).

3. Shape the Loaves (5 mins)

Divide dough in half. Roll each piece into a 12-inch log.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down.

4. Second Rise (30 mins)

Cover and let rise until puffy (~30 mins).

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking steel/stone (if using).

5. Score & Bake (20-25 mins)

Slash tops with a sharp knife (3 diagonal cuts).

Bake for 20-25 mins until deep golden.

(Optional: Spray with water for extra crust!)

6. Cool & Enjoy!

Let cool 30 mins before slicing (if you can wait!).