Classic Homemade French Bread Recipe

Have you ever longed for that perfect loaf of Homemade French Bread, with a crust that crackles and a soft, airy interior? This recipe is your ticket to achieving that bakery-style goodness right in your own kitchen. There’s something incredibly rewarding about kneading the dough and watching it rise, and soon you’ll have a freshly baked loaf that fills your home with a delightful aroma.

This recipe for Delicious French Bread is straightforward and perfect for bakers of any skill level. Whether you plan to serve it alongside a warm bowl of soup or enjoy it with your favorite spread, this French Bread will elevate any meal.

The Allure of French Bread

There’s a unique charm to a freshly baked loaf of French bread. The moment you pull it from the oven, the golden crust captures the light, making it an inviting centerpiece for any meal.

Homemade French Bread has a way of transforming a simple gathering into something special. The crackling sound of the crust as you slice into it reveals a soft, airy interior, a texture that delights the palate. This bread isn’t just a side; it’s an experience.

Preparing the Dough

Creating your own French bread begins with a few essential ingredients. The right combination of bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast sets the stage for the perfect loaf. Mixing these dry ingredients is the first step towards your delicious creation.

The addition of warm water brings the dough to life. With each stir, the ingredients begin to merge, creating a shaggy texture. Kneading the dough on a floured surface helps develop the gluten, resulting in that coveted chewy texture we associate with authentic French bread.

The Rising Process

The magic truly begins during the rising phase. After kneading, the dough needs a warm space to expand. Covering it with a damp cloth allows it to rise for 1-2 hours, doubling in size and filling the air with a comforting aroma.

This process is not just about volume; it’s about creating a light and airy structure. The anticipation builds as you watch the dough transform, knowing that soon you’ll be enjoying a loaf that brings bakery-quality goodness into your home.

Shaping and Second Rise

Once the first rise is complete, it’s time to shape the loaf. Gently punching down the risen dough releases the air bubbles while keeping the structure intact. Turning it onto a floured surface, you’ll form it into a loaf shape, ready for its final resting period.

This second rise, though shorter, is crucial. Allowing the shaped loaf to rise again for about 30-45 minutes ensures you’ll achieve that perfect crumb. During this time, the oven preheats, setting the stage for a crusty exterior.

Baking to Perfection

With the oven heated to 450°F (230°C), it’s time for the loaf to enter the spotlight. Scoring the top of the dough with a sharp knife not only enhances the presentation but also allows for steam to escape, preventing the crust from being too tough.

Baking for 20-25 minutes results in a beautiful golden-brown crust, while the interior remains soft and fluffy. The enticing aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting the moment they can slice into this homemade delight.

Serving and Enjoying

When the loaf is finally out of the oven, let it cool on a rack before slicing. The wait is worth it as you prepare to enjoy your delicious homemade French bread. Serve it warm with a dish of creamy butter and perhaps a sprig of fresh herbs for garnish.

This bread pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or simply on its own. Each slice offers a taste of comfort that evokes memories of quaint bakeries and family gatherings, making every meal feel a little more special.

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• Cornmeal for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
2. Add Water: Pour in the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using, add olive oil.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
8. Score and Bake: Use a sharp knife to make a few diagonal slashes on top of the loaf. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool on a rack before slicing. Enjoy your Homemade French Bread with butter or as part of a delicious meal.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
• Calories: 120kcal per slice
• Fat: 0.5g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g