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The Best Homemade French Bread

A classic, crusty homemade French bread with a soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or serving alongside any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 160

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 cups warm water 110°F

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add salt and olive oil. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  7. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slash top of loaf with a sharp knife.
  8. Bake 22–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on wire rack before slicing.

Notes

For a crispier crust, place a small dish of water in the oven during baking to create steam.