French Bread Recipe
Crunchy outside, soft inside — bring Paris home with this perfect French bread recipe.
There's nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked French bread wafting through your kitchen. With its beautifully golden crust and soft, airy interior, this bread is the epitome of comfort and simplicity. Imagine the satisfying crunch as you tear into a warm loaf, perfect for slathering with butter or mopping up your favorite soup. French bread's history is as rich as its flavor, a staple in every Parisian bakery. The simple ingredients are transformed through a time-honored process, creating a loaf that's both rustic and refined. My fondest memories of French bread are from my travels through the French countryside, where each village boulangerie seemed to offer its unique twist. The secret to this particular recipe is an overnight rise, which deepens the flavor and gives the bread its characteristic chewiness. It's this little trick that takes your homemade loaf from good to truly magnificent. Whether for a special occasion or simply to elevate your everyday meals, this French bread is the perfect complement to any table.
Step-by-Step
- 01Step 1 / 8
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water.
Add yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 02Step 2 / 8
Stir in the salt and 2 cups of flour.
Mix until smooth, then gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- 03Step 3 / 8
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic.
- 04Step 4 / 8
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- 05Step 5 / 8
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts.
Shape each piece into a baguette by flattening and folding the dough.
- Advertisement
- 06Step 6 / 8
Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for another hour.
- 07Step 7 / 8
Preheat your oven to 450°F.
Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on top of each baguette.
- 08Step 8 / 8
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the loaves are a deep golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Chef Tips
- •Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is the right temperature for the yeast.
- •For a crispier crust, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking.
- •If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
- •Let the bread cool fully before slicing to preserve its texture.
- •If short on time, you can decrease the second rise to 30 minutes — the flavor will still be wonderful.
Nutrition (per serving)
Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.
Frequently Asked
Can I make this ahead?+
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight for more complex flavors.
What can I substitute?+
You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture.
How do I store leftovers?+
Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or place in a bread box for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze it.
