30 Minute French Bread

This is my go-to bread recipe for easy, fast, and delicious bread. Please, make some today for dinner! 

2 cups very warm water
1 packet yeast (or 2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast or 2 tsp. instant yeast)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
4+ cups flour

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.  In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and sugar.  Set the bowl on top of your preheating oven for ten minutes. Only do this step if you are using active dry yeast. I use instant yeast and do not proof my yeast. I simply stir it in to all the ingredients. Or set your bread maker to quick dough setting. It should take about 30 minutes to make your dough for you (only do this is if you have time to wait).  Stir in the salt and add the flour a half-cup at a time, until the dough becomes soft but not sticky. I usually have to add more that 4 cups of flour. Add a half a cup more until the dough isn't sticky anymore.

Divide the dough into four even pieces.  Roll each of them into four long, thin ropes.  Twist together two of the ropes to form one loaf.  Twist the other two ropes together to form a second loaf.  Transfer both onto a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

You can now bake the loaf right away (if you’re in a hurry) or allow it to rise for an additional 15-30 minutes on top of your warm oven. I've done it both ways. Both are a really good loaf of bread. If you don't let it rise, it is more dense which some people prefer. If you do let it rise, it is more light and airy.

Now for the SECRET: Fill a cake pan with ice.  Open your hot oven and place the baking sheet with the baguettes inside, then toss the ice cubes on the bottom of the oven and quickly shut the door.  Do NOT open your oven for 15 minutes.  This will make the crispy crust.
Bake until golden brown, about 15-18 minutes.
Recipe from The Family Kitchen