Homemade Baguette

2 Baguette

Ingredients:

2 cup warm water, 110 degrees F (45 degrees C)

1 tbsp yeast

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tbsp sugar

2 tsp salt

5 cup (up to 5 1/2) bread flour

Instructions:

Dissolve yeast in warm water and sugar in large bowl; allow to proof or foam (about 10 minutes).

Add salt, oil, and 3 cups flour; beat for 2 minutes.

Stir in 2 cups flour to make a stiff dough.

Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

Place in an oiled bowl, turn dough to coat all sides, cover and let rise until doubled.

Punch down and divide in half.

Shape dough into two long, slender loaves.

Grease a french bread pan or large cookie sheet and sprinkle with cornmeal.

Place loaves in pan and cut diagonal slits on top of each loaf (I use scissors).

Cover and let rise until doubled.

Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for about 30 minutes.

* You can sprinkle or spray water on the loaves during baking if you want a really crunchy crust.