French Bread Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams of bread flour
10 grams of salt
10 grams of sugar
10 grams of instant yeast
350 milliliters of warm water

Steps and instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
Add the warm water gradually while stirring the mixture with a spoon or dough whisk.
Once the mixture comes together, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf by rolling it out and then tightly rolling it up from one end to the other.
Place the shaped loaves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover the loaves with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) while the loaves are rising.
Using a knife or razor blade, make a few diagonal slashes on the top of each loaf.
Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine and knead the dough.
Spoon or Dough Whisk - Utensil used to mix the dough ingredients together.
Greased Bowl - A bowl coated with oil or cooking spray to allow the dough to rise.
Clean Kitchen Towel - Used to cover the dough while it rises.
Flour - Used for dusting the surface when kneading the dough.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used to place and bake the shaped loaves.
Parchment Paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the bread from sticking.
Knife or Razor Blade - Used to make diagonal slashes on the top of each loaf before baking.
Wire Rack - A cooling rack to allow the bread to cool after baking.

Recipe variations

Whole wheat flour instead of bread flour
Adding herbs and spices (such as rosemary or garlic) to the dough
Creating a sourdough starter and using it in place of instant yeast
Adding seeds (such as sesame or poppy seeds) to the crust
Using a combination of different flours (such as rye flour or spelt flour) for a unique flavor
Making a gluten-free version using a gluten-free flour blend
Adding grated cheese (such as Parmesan or cheddar) to the dough for a cheesy bread
Making French bread rolls or baguettes instead of loaves
Including olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted garlic in the dough for a savory twist
Experimenting with different crust toppings, such as coarse salt or everything bagel seasoning

Recipe overview

Welcome to our French bread recipe! In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making delicious homemade French bread. Get ready to enjoy the irresistible aroma and taste of freshly baked bread right from your own kitchen. Making French bread is truly a rewarding experience. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create two beautiful loaves of crusty, golden bread with a soft and fluffy interior. Throughout this recipe, we will walk you through the necessary steps, from mixing the dough to shaping and baking the loaves. You'll learn how to achieve that iconic French bread texture and flavor, with a crisp crust and a light, airy crumb. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let's get started on this wonderful journey to baking your own French bread. Get ready to impress your family and friends with the delightful taste of homemade bread that you can enjoy for breakfast, sandwiches, or alongside your favorite meals. Are you ready? Let's begin!

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and rise of the bread may vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe using a bread machine? Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough according to your machine's instructions. After the dough cycle is complete, remove it from the machine and proceed with shaping and baking the bread as mentioned in the recipe.
Why is warm water needed? Warm water helps activate the yeast and promotes fermentation, allowing the dough to rise properly.
Can I freeze the dough or bread? Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, let it come to room temperature, then shape, rise, and bake as instructed. The baked bread can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to a month.
What is the purpose of slashing the dough? Slashing the dough before baking helps to control the expansion of the bread while in the oven. It prevents the bread from cracking or bursting and allows for an even rise.
How do I know when the bread is done baking? The bread is done baking when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches around 200°F (93°C).

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients and kneading the dough.
Spoon or Dough Whisk - Used for stirring the ingredients together.
Greased Bowl - A bowl coated with oil or non-stick spray for the dough to rise in.
Clean Kitchen Towel - Used to cover the dough while it rises.
Flour - Used for dusting the surface while kneading the dough.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the loaves in the oven.
Parchment Paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the bread from sticking.
Knife or Razor Blade - Used for making slashes on the top of the loaves before baking.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the bread after it is baked.

Origin stories

French bread, also known as baguette, holds a rich history within the culinary heritage of France. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, when bakers in Paris introduced longer and narrower loaves to differentiate themselves from other regional breads. The baguette quickly became an iconic symbol of French culture, with its crisp crust and soft interior captivating taste buds across the country. Today, French bread is cherished not only in France but also around the world, renowned for its simplicity and unparalleled ability to elevate any meal. Its delightful aroma and delightful texture truly embody the artistry and craftsmanship of French baking.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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