Description
Homemade French Bread is a crusty, bakery-style loaf that’s easy to make from scratch with basic ingredients. This beginner-friendly recipe yields two golden, crisp-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside loaves—perfect for sandwiches, garlic bread, or just warm with butter. A freezer-friendly classic that belongs in every home baker’s repertoire.
Ingredients
Warm water
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Salt
Vegetable oil
All-purpose flour
Egg (optional, for egg wash
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, stir together warm water and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
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Add salt, oil, and a portion of the flour. Mix to combine. Gradually add remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
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Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes, until dough is smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Punch down dough and divide in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place on a greased baking sheet.
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Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If using, brush the loaves with beaten egg for a glossy crust.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and loaves sound hollow when tapped.
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Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
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Add garlic and herbs for extra flavor
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Sprinkle seeds (sesame, poppy) on top before baking
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Substitute whole wheat flour for a hearty texture
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Shape into dinner rolls for individual portions
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Add shredded cheese to the dough for a savory twist
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For a crisper crust, bake with a pan of water in the oven to create steam
- Prep Time: 20min
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
