What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade French Bread recipe brings the bakery to your kitchen, with a crusty outside and soft, airy inside. It’s simple enough for beginners but yields impressive results that’ll make you feel like a pro baker.
You’ll love the fresh-from-the-oven aroma that fills your home as it bakes, making it irresistible to slice and enjoy right away. Plus, it uses just a handful of basic ingredients, so you can whip it up anytime without a special trip to the store. Finally, the satisfaction of biting into a warm, homemade loaf is unbeatable—it’s the perfect addition to any meal or snack.
Recipe
Making homemade French bread is a rewarding experience that yields a crusty exterior and soft, airy interior. This classic recipe uses simple ingredients to create the perfect loaf.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dough: Add salt and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaf: Punch down the dough and shape it into a long loaf. Place it on a greased baking sheet or a baguette pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat and score: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Notes:
- For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Verify the yeast is fresh for the best results.
Equipment:
Mixing bowl, measuring cups/spoons, baking sheet or baguette pan, sharp knife.
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
French
Serving:
Makes 1 loaf (serves 8-10).
Nutrition
This homemade French bread recipe provides essential nutritional information per serving. Below is the detailed breakdown:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade French bread with warm soups and stews—it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop. A simple spread of soft cheese or butter makes it even better, especially when the bread is fresh from the oven. You can’t go wrong pairing it with your favorite dips or even just enjoying it plain.
Soups and Stews
Though French bread’s crusty exterior might make it seem like a standalone star, it’s actually one of my favorite companions for soups and stews. There’s nothing better than dipping a warm slice into a bowl of creamy potato soup or hearty beef stew. The bread soaks up the flavors perfectly, adding a satisfying crunch with every bite. I love pairing it with French onion soup—it’s practically a match made in heaven. Whether it’s a chunky vegetable stew or a silky tomato bisque, French bread elevates the meal, turning a simple dish into something unforgettable. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Cheese and Spreads
When you’ve got a loaf of fresh French bread, pairing it with cheese and spreads instantly turns it into a crowd-pleaser. I love spreading creamy brie or tangy goat cheese on a warm slice—it melts just right. For something savory, try whipped garlic butter or a layer of pesto. If I’m feeling sweet, a drizzle of honey with blue cheese hits the spot. Don’t forget classics like hummus or olive tapenade; they’re easy and delicious. Sometimes, I’ll grab whatever’s in my fridge and experiment—it’s fun! Bread, cheese, and spreads make every bite feel like a little celebration.
