Prep Time: 20 minutes |Â Rise Time: 2 hours |Â Cook Time: 25 minutes |Â Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves (12 slices each)
Contents
Table of Contents
Why Make Homemade French Bread?
Freshly baked French bread fills your kitchen with warmth and an irresistible aroma. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a golden, crusty exterior and a light, airy crumb—perfect for sandwiches, soups, or slathered with butter.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ cups (350ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for softer texture)
- 1 tbsp cornmeal (for dusting)
- 1 egg white + 1 tbsp water (optional glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar until dissolved.
- Sprinkle yeast over the water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Pour in yeast mixture and olive oil (if using). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Loaves
- Punch down dough to release air. Divide into two equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a 12–14-inch log. Place on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet.
5. Second Rise
- Cover loaves with a towel. Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Bake
- Score each loaf with 3–4 diagonal slashes using a sharp knife.
- For a glossy crust, brush with egg white mixed with 1 tbsp water.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool
- Transfer loaves to a wire rack. Cool 15+ minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Bread
- Crispy Crust Hack: Place a heatproof bowl of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
- Chewier Texture: Use bread flour instead of all-purpose.
- Storage: Keep in a paper bag for up to 2 days. Freeze for longer storage.
Ways to Enjoy
- Slice and serve warm with butter or olive oil.
- Make garlic bread, sandwiches, or bruschetta.
- Use stale bread for French toast or croutons.
Nutrition Per Slice (1/12th of a loaf):
Calories: 120 |Â Carbs: 24g |Â Protein: 4g |Â Fat: 0.5g |Â Fiber: 1g |Â Sodium: 200mg
