Name: Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for wash)

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Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread in Under 2 Hours

There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread is not only simple to make but also ready in under two hours! It’s the ideal companion for a family dinner, a weekend brunch, or just a cozy evening with a good book. What sets this recipe apart is its perfect balance of a soft interior and a crusty exterior, creating a bread that beckons to be torn apart and enjoyed.

Why You’ll Love Making It

Making your own French bread at home is an experience that goes beyond just the end product. The quick prep time means it’s perfect for a weekday dinner or a spontaneous gathering. You’ll be amazed at how few ingredients you need to create something so delightful.

“This is the best French bread recipe I’ve tried! It’s so simple, and my family couldn’t get enough of it!” – A delighted home baker.

The joy of baking your own bread doesn’t just stop at taste—it’s budget-friendly and provides a great sense of accomplishment. With minimal effort, you’ll have bakery-quality bread right in your pantry. Plus, there’s something truly satisfying about making bread from scratch.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Creating Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread is a straightforward process. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to pull it off. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

Activate the Yeast: Start by mixing sugar with warm water and adding yeast.
Make the Dough: Combine the yeast mixture with flour and salt.
Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
Shape Loaves: Divide and shape your dough into loaves.
Second Rise: Let the loaves rise again before baking.
Bake: Create steam in the oven for that perfect crust, and bake until golden brown.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients!

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What You’ll Need

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 egg white, lightly beaten (for wash)

Feel free to substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture or experiment with adding herbs for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes or until foamy.
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix using a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 60 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into two equal halves and shape each half into long, even loaves, about 12 to 14 inches long.
Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and allow them to rest for an additional 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack for steam.
Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with the beaten egg white. Make three diagonal slashes across each loaf with a sharp knife.
Carefully pour about 1/2 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Transfer the French bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This soft and crusty French bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt, or pair it with homemade soups and stews for a comforting meal. It’s also wonderful for sandwiches or as a base for bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Perfect Pairings:

Soups: Creamy tomato or hearty minestrone.
Salads: Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Dips: Great for dipping into hummus or olive tapenade.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade French bread fresh longer, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked taste. Remember, proper food handling is key to maintaining quality!

Expert Advice

Don’t skip the steam! It’s essential for achieving that perfect crust.
Don’t rush the rising time. It allows the flavors to develop fully.
Experiment with flavors! Adding herbs or cheese can elevate your bread to the next level.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with your French bread! Add rosemary for an aromatic variation, or fold in olives for a Mediterranean flair. You can also turn it into garlic bread by spreading garlic butter on a sliced loaf before toasting it in the oven.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to bake?
It typically takes between 20 to 25 minutes.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour without activating it first.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the bread in foil for about 10-15 minutes.

Enjoy your baking journey and savor every bite of your homemade French bread!