Kittencal's French Bread/Baguette (Kitchen Aid Mixer Stand Mixer

1. 1

   Attach the dough hook to heavy duty stand mixer.

2. 2

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

3. 3

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

4. 4

   Cover the cup and allow to proof until foamy (about 8 minutes, if the yeast does not foam discard and make again).

5. 5

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

6. 6

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

7. 7

   Start kneading process adding in more flour a tablespoon at a time as needed to create a soft smooth semi-sticky dough (kneading should take about 8 minutes).

8. 8

   Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface; cover with a clean tea towel and let rest for 3 minutes (this is important, allow to sit for 3 minutes).

9. 9

   Oil a large deep bowl.

10. 10

    Gather up the dough and gently knead into a ball (the dough will come together easily after resting).

11. 11

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

12. 12

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

13. 13

    Divide the dough evenly in half.

14. 14

    Cover both pieces of dough and allow to rest for 5 minutes (this will make shaping the dough easier).

15. 15

    Roll each dough into about a 9 x 12-inch rectangle, then roll up jelly-roll fashion starting at long edge.

16. 16

    Seal edges and seam of each loaf.

17. 17

    Grease a large jelly-roll pan then sprinkle with about 2 tablespoons cornmeal.

18. 18

    Place the two long shaped loaves onto the pan seam-side down spacing apart.

19. 19

    Using a razor blade or a small sharp knife slash each loaf 3 times diagonally.

20. 20

    In a small cup whisk an egg white then brush over each loaf.

21. 21

    Sprinkle the tops with about 2 teaspoons seasme seeds for each loaf.

22. 22

    Cover with a clean tea towel and allow to rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

23. 23

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

24. 24

    Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.