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Classic Crusty Homemade French Bread

Close-up of the airy, open crumb structure inside a loaf of homemade french bread.
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Bake a classic French loaf with a crisp exterior and a soft, airy interior using simple ingredients and practical techniques.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for bowl)
  • Water (for steam)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
  2. Add the warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  3. Lightly oil a clean bowl. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently form it into a rough ball. Place the dough in the oiled bowl and turn to coat.
  4. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Gently punch down the dough. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces.
  6. Shape each piece into a long, narrow loaf, about 12 to 15 inches long. Gently stretch and roll the dough to create surface tension.
  7. Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them rest for 30 minutes.
  8. About 15 minutes before baking, place a shallow pan on the bottom rack of your oven and preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius).
  9. Just before placing the bread in the oven, use a sharp knife or razor blade to make 3 to 4 diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf.
  10. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the preheated shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Immediately place the baking sheet with the bread into the oven.
  11. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  12. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crusty exterior, spray the oven walls with water once or twice during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you prefer a softer crust, omit the steam pan during baking.
  • This recipe works well for making French baguettes or rustic loaves.

Nutrition

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