Recipe: Simple Baguettes (bread machine dough cycle)

SIMPLE BAGUETTES

FOR THE DOUGH:
1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons rapid or quick yeast
FOR THE LOAVES:
Cornmeal
Cold water (for brushing on tops)
Sesame seeds, poppy seeds or other favorite seeds (optional, for topping)

Prepare the dough according to directions for your bread machine using the dough cycle.

Remove dough from the machine upon completion of the dough cycle and divide in half. On a cornmeal-covered work surface (to prevent sticking), roll each portion of dough into a large rectangle. Roll dough jelly-roll fashion, beginning on the wide side.

Place on a greased, cornmeal-covered baguette pan or baking sheet to rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Just before baking, slash top of bread with a razor blade or very sharp knife. Wash with cold water and top with seeds if desired.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree F oven for about 15 minutes until bread is brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Makes 3 baguettes
Source: The Bread Machine Cookbook VI by Donna Rathmell German