French Bread Recipe: Easy Steps to Make French Bagette

Craving the rich aroma of fresh-baked bread? This classic French bread recipe will transport your kitchen to a cozy Parisian bakery. Whether you’re new to baking or looking for an easy French bread recipe, this simple guide is perfect. The soft interior and golden, crispy crust make it a staple in many households. Discover how to master French baguette bread recipes at home with just a few ingredients and straightforward steps.

Classic French Bread

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

120

kcal

This easy French bread recipe delivers a perfectly soft interior with a crispy, golden crust. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll enjoy two delicious loaves of homemade French bread. Perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a side to any meal.

Ingredients

4 cups bread flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 tsp sugar

Directions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Add the yeast, stir, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and frothy.
Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the loaves: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into an oval or log shape. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Final rise: Cover the loaves and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.
Preheat the oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a pan of water on the lower rack to create steam for a crisp crust.
Score and bake: Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crusty. Cool before slicing.

Notes

Bread flour is ideal for better gluten formation, but all-purpose flour can work in a pinch.
Ensure water is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast properly.
Adding steam to the oven helps achieve a classic French baguette bread recipe’s crusty exterior.
Let the bread cool before slicing to retain its structure.

Additional Tips for the perfect French Bread Recipe:

Speed up the rising time: If you’re in a hurry, let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven. Preheat the oven to 170°F (77°C) for a few minutes, then turn it off before placing the covered dough inside. This will create a warm environment and reduce rising time by up to 50%.
Measure ingredients by weight: Using a kitchen scale to measure your flour and water will give you more accurate results and a consistent texture. Too much flour can make the bread dense, while too much water can make it sticky and hard to knead.
Enhance flavor and texture: For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter to the dough. For a more artisan texture, sprinkle some cornmeal on the baking sheet before placing the loaves. This creates a rustic bottom crust reminiscent of the best French baguette bread recipes.
Achieve a super crispy crust: For an even crunchier crust, mist the loaves with water just before placing them in the oven. You can also open the oven door halfway through baking to release steam, which helps develop a deep golden crust.
Store and reheat properly: To keep your bread fresh, store it in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. If the crust softens over time, simply reheat the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back its crispness.

FAQ

What’s the key to getting a crispy crust on French bread?

To achieve that signature crispy crust, bake the bread at a high temperature (around 450°F) and place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven. The steam from the water helps create a golden, crunchy crust.

How long can I store homemade French bread?

Fresh French bread is best enjoyed the day it’s made. However, you can store it at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze it in an airtight bag, and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Can I make French bread without a stand mixer?

Yes! French bread dough can be mixed and kneaded by hand. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It may take a little extra effort, but the results are just as delicious.

… and to conclude

Mastering a classic French bread recipe is easier than you think. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful loaf with a perfect crust and tender inside. Whether you’re looking for the best French bread recipe or experimenting with a simple, easy French bread recipe, this method will deliver exceptional results every time.

If you love the flavor of freshly baked bread but want to try something with a bit more complexity, consider exploring sourdough sandwich bread. Unlike the straightforward ingredients in this French bread recipe, sourdough relies on a natural fermentation process using a starter, giving it a distinct tangy taste and chewy texture. It’s a fantastic option for making hearty sandwiches or delicious toast with added depth of flavor.

And what is better than Beach Plum Jelly to use as a sweet spread on the French bread!