French Bread, Quick and Easy - Grandma Ellen

Note:  The kneading is very important to the success of this bread.  Do not overcook.  It causes the bread to stay soft and not dry.

1 cup hot water
2 Tbsp. shortening
2 Tbsp. sugar
8 cups flour
2 pkgs. dry yeast
1 cup warm water
3 tsp. salt
1/4 cup evaporated milk
course salt
sesame seeds

Combine hot water, shortening, sugar and salt.  Stir to dissolve, cool to lukewarm.  Dissolve yeast in lukewarm water; add to shortening and sugar mixture.  Blend the flour and beat until well blended.  Add remaining flour to make a moderate dough.  Knead until satiny and well mixed. 

Cover and place in a warm spot to rise until it is doubled, about 1 hour.  Punch down.  Divide the dough in 3 balls and rest another 10 minutes. 

Roll each ball into a rectangle, then roll up as a jelly roll.  Seal ends and share to a rounded point.  Score top with a sharp knife.  Place on a greased cookie sheet.  Brush with evaporated milk.  Sprinkle with course salt and sesame seeds, if desired.

Cover and let rise 1- 1 1/2 hours until doubles.

Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes.  Brush with melted butter.

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