Easy French Bread

Makes 2 delicious loaves!

Easy French Bread



2 1/4 tsp. yeast
1 1/2 C. warm water
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. soft shortening or oil (I prefer oil)
4 C. flour


1.  In a stand mixer, pour in yeast, water, sugar, salt and oil.  Mix.  Let rest for 10 minutes.

2.  Add flour and mix for 10 minutes.

3.  Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and divide in half.  Shape into 2 balls.  Let rest for 10 minutes.

4.  Roll each ball into a 9"x12" rectangle.  Then roll up firmly along long side, like for a jelly roll.  Pinch ends to seal.

5.  Place on an ungreased baking sheet.  Score top diagonally 5 or 6 times with a serrated knife (about half inch deep gashes).  Cover and let rise in a warm place for about an hour.  Turn oven on about half way through rising time.

6.  Bake at 400º for about 30 minutes, until bread is deeply golden.  Brush with melted butter while warm.

Enjoy!