Easy French Or Italian Bread

1. 1

   proof yeast with sugar in water until foamy.

2. 2

   combine water with 4 cups flour, mix and let sit 15 minutes.

3. 3

   in a mixer with a dough hook add in flour by the cup until it reaches a smooth consistency and forms a ball that pulls away from the bowl, should be about 3 more cups (7 total).

4. 4

   knead by hand or in mixer until smooth and elastic, about 5-10 in a mixer.

5. 5

   rise until double, about an hour. punch down, rise another hour.

6. 6

   divide into pieces and form loaves (either 3 italian shape or about 5 long french loaves).

7. 7

   rise one last time, 30-45 minutes, slash tops with a sharp knife and bake at 400 for about 30 minutes until the loaves sound hollow.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.