French Bread Recipe
This french bread recipe helps you create homemade bread with a crispy golden crust and soft airy interior using simple ingredients and easy step by step instructions. Perfect for beginners and ideal for sandwiches, toast, or serving with meals.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk
- Clean work surface
- Baking tray
- Oven
- Clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional
Instructions
- Add warm water to a mixing bowl. Add sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foam forms on top. This shows the yeast is active.
- Add bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Transfer the dough to a clean surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes until doubled in size.
- Remove the dough from the bowl. Shape it into a long loaf. Place the shaped dough on a baking tray.
- Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for 30 to 45 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Preheat oven to 190 to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the bread for 20 to 30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use fresh yeast for best rising results
Do not use hot water because it can kill yeast
Knead dough until smooth and elastic for proper texture
Allow full rising time for soft and airy bread
