Description
Homemade Bakery French Bread is a classic, crusty loaf with a soft, airy interior. Perfect for any meal, this simple recipe yields a delicious bread that can be enjoyed with butter, as a sandwich, or alongside soups.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional for a glossy finish)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil (if using). Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary, but avoid adding too much.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Punch down the dough, then roll it into a rectangle. Fold the dough into a baguette shape and pinch the seams to seal.
- Second rise: Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the egg wash: Whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush over the loaf for a glossy finish.
- Score the bread: Use a sharp knife to make diagonal slashes on top of the loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow when tapped. Internal temperature should be 190°F (88°C).
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy with butter, in sandwiches, or with your favorite soup.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- If you don’t have a baguette pan, shape the dough by hand and bake it on a sheet.
- For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
