Makes two baguettes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 C warm water
• 1 1/2 T active dry yeast
• 2 tsp sugar
• 3 1/2 C flour
• 2 tsp salt
• melted butter

Instructions

1. In a small bowl combine 1/2 cup of warm water, the yeast, and 1 tsp of the sugar. Stir well and let sit 5 minutes or until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl blend of the flour, salt, and the remaining teaspoon of sugar with the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add remaining water and mix until the dough forms a smooth ball that is not too sticky to handle (if it is too sticky a little more flour).
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and need briefly until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cut the dough in half and shape the house into baguettes.
5. Grease a baguette pan and place the loaves in the pan.
6. Score the loaves down the middle, cover with a dish towel and let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 450° and place a shallow pan of water in the bottom of the oven to create steam.
8. Bake the baguettes for 15 minutes.

Optional

• Brush the tops with melted butter halfway through the baking.
• For softer crust, brush with butter when they have finished baking.