Description
Crusty on the outside, soft and airy on the inside—this Homemade French Bread is a comforting classic that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups warm water (105–110°F)
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a metal pan on the lower rack if using steam.
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Stir in oil and salt, then gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
- Lightly grease a large bowl and a baking sheet or loaf pan. Set aside.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in the greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough, divide into two loaves, and shape. Place on prepared baking surface. Let rise for 30 minutes. Score tops with a sharp knife.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden. For extra crust, mist oven with water during baking.
- Remove and brush tops with melted butter. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Freeze baked loaves for up to a month.
- Add herbs or cheese to the dough for variation.
- Let bread cool fully before storing to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: French bread, homemade bread, easy French bread, crusty bread, bakery style bread