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Classic Homemade Crusty French Bread Recipe

A composite image showing a whole french bread loaf and a slice revealing its open, airy crumb structure.
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Learn to bake bakery-style French bread at home. This recipe focuses on achieving a crisp, crackly crust and a soft, airy interior using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Water for steaming

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  4. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long, narrow loaf (baguette shape).
  7. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a pizza stone. Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack while the oven heats.
  9. Just before baking, score the tops of the loaves diagonally 3 to 4 times with a sharp knife.
  10. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the preheated shallow pan to create steam. Immediately place the loaves in the oven.
  11. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown.
  12. Remove the bread from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crusty exterior, spray the inside walls of the oven with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you want soft fluffy french bread, reduce the baking time slightly and skip the heavy steaming step.
  • This recipe makes great french bread for dinner or sandwiches.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/french-bread-classic-homemade-crusty-recipe/