French Bread (“Rapid Rise”)
Description: This recipe presents a delightful way to create a scrumptious French loaf. Utilizing “rapid rise” yeast, it offers a quicker alternative as it requires only one rise instead of the conventional two. The prep time, inclusive of a 40-minute rising interval, streamlines the process without compromising on the authentic taste and texture of a French bread.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
Keywords: Breads, European, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Potluck, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy
Yield: 2 Loaves
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1307.6
- Fat Content: 3.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 2370.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 271.7g
- Fiber Content: 11.2g
- Sugar Content: 7.3g
- Protein Content: 40.2g
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 5 1/2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Fast rising yeast | 2 packages |
| Hot water | 2 cups |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Cornmeal | – |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough:
- Set aside 1 cup of flour.
- In a large bowl, mix the remaining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Stir hot water into the dry mixture.
- Mix in enough reserved flour to make a soft dough.
-
Knead the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
-
Shape the Loaves:
- Divide the dough in half.
- Roll half of the dough into a 10×15 inch rectangle.
- Roll the dough tightly (resembling a jelly roll), starting from the long side, and tapering the ends.
- Pinch the ends and seam to seal.
- Place the dough seam side down on a greased baking sheet that has been sprinkled with cornmeal.
- Repeat the same process with the remaining half of the dough.
-
Rise and Prepare for Baking:
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size, approximately 35-40 minutes.
- With a sharp knife or razor blade, make 4 diagonal cuts on the top of each loaf.
-
Baking Process:
- Combine the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water, then brush it on the loaves.
- Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 25-30 minutes or until the loaves turn golden brown and are fully baked.
- Remove the loaves from the baking sheets and allow them to cool on wire racks.
Additional Note: If you prefer to craft baguettes instead of loaves, you can shape the dough into ropes by hand to achieve the longer, thinner shape characteristic of baguettes.
This French Bread recipe promises an authentic taste and texture, perfect for various occasions from casual weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings. Embrace the simplicity and speed of “rapid rise” yeast while indulging in the timeless charm of freshly baked French bread. Enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen and the satisfaction of creating a homemade masterpiece! 🥖🇫🇷
