Foolproof French Loaf

The smell of fresh bread from the oven is enough to make anyone swoon.  This recipe can be used as a side, or an appetizer, and is very simple.  One of my favorite aspects of this French loaf, are all the different variations you can try, using the same idea.  I have included the original recipe that I got from an old co-worker, but today I was going for more color when you slice it, so I added roasted red peppers. {I discovered this version needs more salt than the others.} Another variation is to use Brie and prosciutto.  You could even try a sweeter version, with cinnamon, butter, and raisins.

This is best served directly out of the oven, but it will be gone immediately.  So don't try saving it for the meal!  If you want to take it to a party, do not bake it ahead of time.  Just make the dough as directed, and refrigerate until you get there.  They will thank you for baking it in their oven and making their house smell amazing!

Here are the original ingredients I tried:
1 loaf of Pillsbury French loaf
1 pkg. Boursin cheese
1 bunch of fresh basil
1 egg & a teaspoon of water
kosher salt

What you do:
--line a sheet pan with parchment paper, and spray it with non-stick spray
--lay the loaf on the pan, and find the seam in the dough
--VERY carefully unroll the loaf.  It will make a rectangle on the pan
--spread your cheese of choice over the dough.  Boursin is not very spreadable, so I tend to crumble that one, or pinch it flat with my fingers and drop it on the dough.
--drop your julienned or chopped basil on top of the cheese
--roll the dough back into a loaf
--whisk the egg and water together in a small dish, and brush on top of the loaf.  Sprinkle lightly with Kosher salt.
--bake @ 350 for 26 to 30 minutes.


Would you try this at home?  What version would you make?  If you would like to see the full list of recipes from my blog, click HERE.