World's Easiest French Bread

A soft bread with a crisp crust, this tasty French bread is easy to make and ready in about an hour!

Recipe

Ingredients

1  1/2 cups warm water
1 tbsp. maple syrup
1  1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp. active dry yeast
3  1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the water, maple syrup, salt, and yeast, cover with a kitchen towel, place in a warm spot, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes; until frothy. 
2. Add 3 and 1/2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture and knead, gradually adding more flour until it no longer sticks to your hands but holds its shape. 
3. Shape into a loaf, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and set in a warm spot to rise for 20 minutes. 
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
5. Once the dough has risen, cut some slits on the top and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden. 
6. Serve and enjoy!