How to Make Easy French Bread At Home

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: bread flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier with good fats.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey adds natural sweetness.

yeast

🥗Healthier: sourdough starter

💰Cheaper: instant yeast

Sourdough adds depth of flavor.

Proof the yeast by adding 1 packet of dry active yeast to 1/4 cup warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.

In a stand mixer, combine the proofed yeast mixture with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup and 2 tablespoons of warm water.

Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture and knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes until soft and smooth.

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead a few times by hand, then divide the dough in half.

Roll each half into a rectangle about 6 by 8 inches, then roll it up jelly-roll style with the seam on the bottom.

Tuck the ends under to form a loaf and place on a parchment-lined or greased cookie sheet.

Make three diagonal cuts about a quarter inch deep on top of each loaf.

Prepare an egg wash by mixing 1 egg white with 1 tablespoon of water and brush it over the loaves.

Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 20 to 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and place a pan of boiled water on the bottom shelf.

Put the bread in the oven and turn it off, allowing it to rise and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the bread from the oven, let it cool slightly, and slice.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens