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Freshly baked traditional French bread loaf on a wooden table

French Bread

A simple and satisfying recipe for making homemade French bread with a crisp crust and airy interior, perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
  • 1.5 cups warm water Make sure the water is warm, not hot.
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast Can substitute with instant yeast.
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Helps activate the yeast.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
  3. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf.
  3. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  5. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Store French bread at room temperature in a bread box or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. Avoid plastic bags. For longer storage, slice and place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
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