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French Bread

A simple yet classic recipe for making delicious homemade French bread with a crispy crust and soft, airy interior.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup warm water Needed to activate the yeast.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Offers sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
  • 2 tsp instant yeast The key leavening agent.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds flavor and moisture.
  • 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour Main structure-building ingredient.
  • 2 tsp kosher salt Enhances flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Shape into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise for 1 to 1½ hours or until doubled in size.
Baking
  1. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into a log and place seam side down on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Score each loaf with 3–4 diagonal slashes and place in the oven. Pour 1 cup of hot water into a pan on the bottom rack to create steam.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
  6. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best results. Experiment with different flours for varied textures. Mist the oven with water during the first few minutes for a crispier crust.