Kittencal's French Bread Baguette Kitchen Aid Mixer Stand Mixer

This recipe will make two loaves of the *best* french bread you will ever have, i have been making this for years with perfect results every time, sometimes it is not the ingredients used but the method used that will make for perfect results, this is my way to a create the perfect french bread! --- you will need some cornmeal for the pan and an egg white for brushing on the top of the loaves, also about 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds --- make certain to have the two separated cups of water at the right temperature or your bread will not turn out properly, two .25-ounce packages of yeast will be fine for this recipe --- note use 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon of active dry yeast or 2 small packages/envelopes of active dry yeast

Steps

Attach the dough hook to heavy duty stand mixer.

In a small cup or bowl mix 1 teaspoon sugar into 1 cup warm water until combined.

Stir in 1 tablespoon plus 1 / 2 teaspoon active dry yeast and mix gently.

Cover the cup and allow to proof until foamy.

Place 5-1 / 2 cups flour in the stainless steel mixing bowl along with the salt , sugar and 5 tablespoons oil.

After the yeast has proofed add to the bowl along with remaining 1 cup warm water.

Start kneading process adding in more flour a tablespoon at a time as needed to create a soft smooth semi-sticky dough.

Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Cover with a clean tea towel and let rest for 3 minutes.

Oil a large deep bowl.

Gather up the dough and gently knead into a ball.

Place the dough into the bowl , then cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for about 1 hour or until doubled.

Punch down the dough and remove to a lightly floured surface.

Divide the dough evenly in half.

Cover both pieces of dough and a.

Ingredients

warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, bread flour, salt, vegetable oil