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Easy 90-Minute Crusty Homemade French Bread

A freshly baked loaf of french bread, sliced open to show the airy interior, resting on a wire cooling rack.
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Learn to bake bakery-style French bread at home with this simple recipe. You get a loaf with a wonderfully crisp crust and a soft, airy interior in under two hours. This is the reliable message of comfort you can deliver for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for faster rise)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar (if using) in the warm water. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It will be slightly sticky.
  4. First Rise (Quick Method): Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the loaves: Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long, narrow loaf, similar to a baguette.
  6. Second Rise: Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Cover loosely and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat and Prepare for Steam: About 15 minutes before baking, place a shallow metal pan on the bottom rack of your oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  8. Create Steam: Just before placing the bread in the oven, pour 1 cup of hot water into the preheated pan on the bottom rack to create steam. This helps develop the crust.
  9. Score and Bake: Using a sharp knife or razor blade, make three diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf. Carefully slide the loaves onto the middle rack.
  10. Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown.
  11. Cool: Transfer the baked French bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy this bakery style bread at home!

Notes

  • For an even crispier crust, you can lightly spritz the loaves with water every five minutes during the first 15 minutes of baking.
  • If you prefer a softer crust loaf, omit the water pan for steam and brush the tops lightly with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
  • This recipe is a great base for an artisan bread baking project.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/french-bread-recipe-easy-homemade-crusty-loaf/