TheBakingRecipes

Traditional French Bread Recipe

Crunchy crust, soft and airy inside—perfect for sandwiches or dipping in soup!

Ingredients:

• 500g (4 cups) bread flour
• 325ml (1 ⅓ cups) warm water
• 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, for activating yeast)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   • Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bread:
   • Punch down the dough, shape into a baguette or round loaf, and place on a floured baking sheet.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes. Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F).
7. Bake:
   • Score the top of the bread with a sharp knife. Bake for 20–25 minutes, adding a tray of hot water to the oven for steam.
8. Cool & Enjoy:
   • Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.