Long loaves of French and Italian bread in America are always improved if before serving they are baked in a hot oven until they almost start to toast. This makes the crust crisper and tastier. It is simple to do. Simply preheat the oven to 450 degrees and when it is hot, place the bread on a rack in the oven. Let stand until crust starts to become browner, 5 to 10 minutes. Serve sliced, with butter.