Description
This homemade French bread recipe delivers a crispy, golden-brown crust with a soft, chewy interior. Simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, it’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or enjoying fresh with butter.
Ingredients
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3 cups bread flour
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1 cup warm water (105°F / 40°C)
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2 teaspoons active dry yeast
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1.5 teaspoons salt
Instructions
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Step 1: Activate the yeast by combining warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
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Step 2: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
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Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Step 4: Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl, covered, for 1.5-2 hours, until doubled in size.
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Step 5: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Let it proof for 45 minutes.
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Step 6: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
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Step 7: Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
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Step 8: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, bake on a pizza stone or in a preheated Dutch oven.
- Add herbs or seeds for a flavor variation.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 loaf)
- Calories: 150