Transform your kitchen into a French bakery with this delightful homemade French bread recipe. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or simply enjoying with butter, this bread will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your pantry. If not, you should easily find active dry yeast at your local supermarket. It's crucial for making the bread rise properly, so don't skip it!
Ingredients for Homemade French Bread Recipe
Sugar: Provides sweetness and feeds the yeast.
Salt: Enhances flavor.
Warm water: Activates the yeast.
Active dry yeast: Leavens the bread.
Flour: Forms the dough.
Egg white: Gives the bread a shiny crust.
One reader, Kaylyn Yager says:
This homemade French bread recipe is fantastic! The bread turned out perfectly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. The instructions were easy to follow, and the result was delicious. I'll definitely be making this again!
Key Techniques for Mastering Homemade French Bread
How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough with your hands to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself and repeat.
How to roll dough jelly-roll style: Rolling dough jelly-roll style means rolling it up tightly from one end to the other, similar to how you would roll a jelly roll or Swiss roll. This technique helps create a uniform loaf shape.
How to cut slits in dough: Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts about ¼-inch deep into the surface of the dough. This allows steam to escape and helps the bread expand properly while baking.
How to brush with egg white: Lightly beat the egg white and use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer over the surface of the dough. This gives the bread a shiny, golden crust.
How To Make Homemade French Bread
Nothing beats the taste of home-baked bread. Try this French bread recipe that lets the dough rise 3 times before baking into soft, golden bread.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspsugar
- ¾tspsalt
- 1cupwarm water,110 to 115 degrees F
- 2¼tspactive dry yeast,(1 pkg)
- 3cupsflour
- 1egg white
Instructions
-
Combine sugar, salt, and 1 cup of warm water in a bowl. Stir in yeast and let stand for 5 minutes.
-
Stir in 2 cups of flour. Continue adding flour a bit at a time to form a stiff dough. Knead for about 5 minutes (or use a dough hook on a stand mixer*).
-
Place dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled. Punch dough down and let rise for 30 minutes more.
-
Roll dough into a 14×10-inch square and roll up jelly-roll style to create a 14×2.5-inch loaf. Place on a parchment-lined pan seam side down. Using a sharp knife, cut 3 to 4 diagonal slits into the loaf (about ¼-inch deep).
-
Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 30 to 40 minutes or until doubled. Brush bread with egg white. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
-
Place in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until browned. Cool on a baking rack.
Recipe Notes
If using a stand mixer, place the dough in the mixer with a dough hook and allow it to mix on medium speed for about 90 seconds.
Nutrition
- Calories: 104.03kcal
- Fat: 0.31g
- Saturated Fat: 0.05g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.05g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.11g
- Carbohydrates: 21.61g
- Fiber: 0.90g
- Sugar: 0.98g
- Protein: 3.23g
- Sodium: 109.61mg
- Calcium: 4.92mg
- Potassium: 37.91mg
- Iron: 0.33mg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect French Bread Crust
When kneading the dough, ensure that you use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. This process helps develop the gluten structure, giving the bread its chewy texture. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the bread dense.
Time-Saving Tips for Making French Bread at Home
Use a stand mixer: Save time by using a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough instead of doing it by hand.
Proof in a warm place: Speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while the dough is on its final rise to save time.
Measure ingredients ahead: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and quick transfer.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade French Bread Recipe
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
warm water - Substitute with milk: Warm milk can add a richer flavor and tenderize the bread.
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.
flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier texture.
egg white - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can mimic the binding properties of egg white.
How to Beautifully Present Your Freshly Baked French Bread
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the french bread into smaller, elegant pieces to create a refined presentation. Each slice should be about 1 inch thick to maintain the perfect balance between crust and crumb.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the aroma of the bread.
Accompany with spreads: Provide a trio of gourmet spreads such as herbed butter, truffle oil, and fig jam. Present these in small, elegant ramekins to enhance the dining experience.
Add texture: Place a few sea salt flakes on top of the bread after brushing with egg white. This adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the flour and yeast used are of the highest quality. This will result in a superior texture and flavor, which is crucial for impressing culinary professionals.
Create a balanced plate: Pair the french bread with a small side salad of mixed greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balance to the dish.
Highlight the crust: Ensure the bread is baked to a perfect golden brown. The crust should be crisp and inviting, showcasing the skill and precision involved in its creation.
Serve warm: Present the bread warm, straight from the oven. This enhances the aroma and makes the dining experience more enjoyable.
Use elegant plating: Place the bread slices on a sleek, modern plate. The simplicity of the plate will allow the bread to be the star of the show.
Incorporate a dipping sauce: Offer a small dish of extra virgin olive oil with a dash of balsamic vinegar for dipping. This adds a touch of sophistication and an additional layer of flavor.
Essential Tools for Making the Perfect French Bread at Home
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the sugar, salt, water, and yeast, and later to mix in the flour.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the sugar, salt, and yeast.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the warm water and flour accurately.
Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the initial mixture of sugar, salt, water, and yeast, and for mixing in the flour.
Stand mixer: Optional but useful for kneading the dough with a dough hook attachment.
Dough hook: An attachment for the stand mixer that kneads the dough efficiently.
Kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rises.
Rolling pin: Helps in rolling the dough into a 14x10-inch square.
Parchment paper: Lines the baking pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
Baking pan: A flat pan where the loaf is placed for baking.
Sharp knife: Used to make diagonal slits on the loaf.
Pastry brush: For brushing the loaf with egg white before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 425 degrees F for baking the bread.
Cooling rack: Allows the baked bread to cool evenly.
How To Store and Freeze Your Homemade French Bread
Once the french bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Storing it in a plastic bag can cause the crust to soften, so it's best to avoid this method.
If you plan to consume the bread within a couple of days, you can store it at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A bread box or a kitchen cabinet works well for this purpose.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer of protection will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the bread's quality.
If you prefer, you can also slice the bread before freezing. This allows you to take out and thaw only the amount you need at a time. Place a piece of parchment paper between each slice to prevent them from sticking together, then wrap the sliced loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Label the wrapped bread with the date and type of bread before placing it in the freezer. Homemade french bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature, still wrapped. This process may take a few hours, depending on the size of the loaf. For a quicker method, you can unwrap the bread and heat it in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
To restore the crispy crust of your thawed or room-temperature stored bread, you can place it uncovered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover French Bread
To reheat leftover homemade french bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil and place it directly on the oven rack. Bake for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the loaf, until it's heated through and the crust is crispy once again. This method helps to restore the bread's original texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Cut the leftover bread into slices and place them in the toaster oven. Toast for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until the slices are heated through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method is perfect for reheating smaller portions of leftover french bread.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Wrap the bread in a damp paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 15-20 seconds, or until the bread is warm and soft. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it can become tough and chewy. This method is best for those who prefer a softer texture.
If you want to add a touch of flavor to your leftover french bread, try making garlic bread. Cut the bread into slices and spread a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley on each slice. Place the slices on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the edges are golden brown. This method not only reheats the bread but also adds a delicious flavor.
For a crispy crust and a soft interior, try reheating your leftover french bread on a stovetop. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it cut-side down on the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cut side is golden brown and crispy. Flip the bread and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through. This method is ideal for those who love a crispy crust.
Fascinating Facts About French Bread You Might Not Know
A unique aspect of this homemade french bread recipe is the use of egg white brushed on the loaf before baking. This technique gives the bread a shiny, crisp crust, which is a hallmark of traditional French baguettes.
Is Making French Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This homemade french bread recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast, the total cost is minimal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $2-$3. Given the simplicity and affordability, I would rate this recipe a solid 9 out of 10.
Is Homemade French Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
This homemade French bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe relies heavily on refined white flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain flours.
- There is a small amount of added sugar, which contributes to the overall carbohydrate content without providing any nutritional benefits.
- The recipe does not include any significant sources of vitamins, minerals, or healthy fats.
However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:
- The use of active dry yeast and the fermentation process involved in making the bread can contribute to better digestibility and may provide some beneficial probiotics.
- The recipe is relatively low in fat and does not include any unhealthy additives or preservatives.
To make this French bread recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace a portion of the white flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours like spelt or rye. This will increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of added sugar or omit it entirely. The fermentation process will still provide some natural sweetness to the bread.
- Experiment with adding healthy ingredients like seeds (e.g., chia, flax, or sunflower), nuts, or dried herbs to boost the nutritional profile and add interesting flavors and textures.
- Serve the bread with nutrient-dense accompaniments like hummus, avocado, or nut butters to make it part of a well-rounded, healthy meal.
Editor's Opinion: Why This French Bread Recipe Stands Out
This homemade French bread recipe is straightforward and accessible for novice bakers. The steps are clear, and the ingredients are simple, ensuring a classic, crusty loaf. The use of egg white for brushing adds a beautiful sheen and crispness to the crust. However, consider adding a steam bath in the oven for an even better crust. The double rise ensures a light, airy interior. Overall, it's a solid recipe that balances ease and authenticity, perfect for those looking to bring a touch of French bakery magic to their home kitchen.
Enhance Your Homemade French Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Traditional French Bread
Why trust this Homemade French Bread Recipe:
This homemade French bread recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. With simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and egg white, it ensures a delightful baking experience. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners. The result is a perfectly golden, crusty loaf that's soft and airy inside. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the authentic taste of French bread right from your kitchen.
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