Print

Classic Crusty Homemade French Bread Recipe

A golden-brown crusty french bread loaf, cut in half to show the airy interior crumb structure.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Bake bakery-style French bread at home. This recipe delivers a loaf with a crisp, crackly crust and a soft, airy interior using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting the baking surface)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is active.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long, rustic loaf shape, about 12 to 15 inches long.
  6. Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet dusted generously with cornmeal. Cover loosely and let them rest for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack of the oven.
  8. Just before baking, use a sharp knife or razor blade to make three diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf.
  9. Carefully pour about 1 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Remove the French bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a softer crust, skip adding water to the bottom of the oven during baking.
  • If you prefer a soft and fluffy texture instead of crusty, reduce the baking time slightly and brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter immediately after they come out of the oven.
  • This bread is excellent served warm with butter or used as a substitute for dinner rolls.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/easy-french-bread-recipe-crusty-soft/