Print

Classic Crusty Homemade French Bread: Bakery Style Loaves at Home

Top image shows a golden-brown, scored loaf of french bread; bottom shows a cross-section revealing an open, airy crumb.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn how to make truly crusty and delicious homemade French bread. This easy recipe delivers bakery-style results with a crisp exterior and soft interior, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast.
  2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This is key for a good structure.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long, rustic loaf or baguette shape.
  6. Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Cover loosely and let them rest for a second rise for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) about 20 minutes before baking. Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam later.
  8. Just before baking, use a sharp knife or razor blade to make three diagonal slashes (about 1/2 inch deep) across the top of each loaf.
  9. Carefully pour about 1 cup of hot water into the preheated shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
  10. Bake the French bread for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your artisan bread baking success!

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, spray the inside of the oven walls with water a couple of times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you want a softer crust loaf, skip the steam pan and brush the tops lightly with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
  • This recipe makes two loaves, perfect for dinner rolls ideas homemade or sandwiches.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerykings.com/french-bread-recipe-crusty-bakery-style-loaves/