I tried, quite literally, dozens of french bread recipes before I stumbled upon this one. It is amazing, just like the loaves you pick up at your local grocery store, only better!
06Place loaves on pan(s) — (I actually half the recipe when I make it because there is not enough room in my oven to bake both loaves at the same time. It is very important to not let this bread over-rise!) and let rise for 30 minutes.
07With a very sharp knife make 3-5 slashes on the top of the loaves and brush the top and sides with the beaten egg.
08Put in a preheated 400 degree oven immediately and cook for 20-30 minutes or until golden. Remove from pan immediately and cool on racks.