Description
Crusty, golden, and irresistibly chewy, this French bread recipe delivers artisan-quality results using five simple ingredients. It’s the perfect loaf for dipping, toasting, or savoring with just butter. With a crispy exterior and tender crumb, this bread is ideal for beginner bakers looking to master a rustic classic. No stand mixer, no complicated techniques—just traditional bread-baking made approachable and rewarding. Whether you pair it with hearty stews or a drizzle of herbed olive oil, this French bread will become your go-to homemade loaf.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
- 1 cup warm water (105–110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn out and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (1.5 to 2 hours).
- Punch down, divide dough, and shape into two loaves. Place on a baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise again for 45–60 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Score loaves and pour 1 cup of hot water into a preheated pan in the oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use bread flour for extra chewiness.
For a crustier finish, mist with water before baking or add a pan of water to the oven.
Add garlic or herbs for flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: french
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (from 2 loaves, approx. 16 slices)
- Calories: 120