This enhanced French bread recipe is perfect for your bread machine, offering a delightful crust and soft interior.
Pour the lukewarm water into the bread machine pan.
Ensure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly.
Add half of the bread flour to the pan.
Adding the flour in stages helps distribute the ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle the salt and sugar over the flour.
Keep the salt away from the yeast to avoid deactivating it.
Add the remaining flour to the pan.
Cover the salt and sugar with the flour to protect the yeast.
Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
Creating a well for the yeast ensures it activates correctly.
Set the bread machine to the French bread cycle and start.
Use the French bread cycle for the best texture and crust.
Once the cycle is complete, remove the bread and let it cool on a wire rack.
Cooling the bread on a wire rack prevents a soggy bottom.