Easy Homemade French Bread Recipe: Crispy Crust & Soft Interior

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rise Time: 2 hours | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves (12 slices each)

Why Make Homemade French Bread?

Freshly baked French bread fills your kitchen with warmth and an irresistible aroma. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a golden, crusty exterior and a light, airy crumb—perfect for sandwiches, soups, or slathered with butter.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 ½ cups (350ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for softer texture)
• 1 tbsp cornmeal (for dusting)
• 1 egg white + 1 tbsp water (optional glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar until dissolved.
• Sprinkle yeast over the water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
• Pour in yeast mixture and olive oil (if using). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

• Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth.
• Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Loaves

• Punch down dough to release air. Divide into two equal parts.
• Roll each piece into a 12–14-inch log. Place on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet.

5. Second Rise

• Cover loaves with a towel. Let rise 30–45 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

6. Bake

• Score each loaf with 3–4 diagonal slashes using a sharp knife.
• For a glossy crust, brush with egg white mixed with 1 tbsp water.
• Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

7. Cool

• Transfer loaves to a wire rack. Cool 15+ minutes before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Bread

• Crispy Crust Hack: Place a heatproof bowl of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
• Chewier Texture: Use bread flour instead of all-purpose.
• Storage: Keep in a paper bag for up to 2 days. Freeze for longer storage.

Ways to Enjoy

• Slice and serve warm with butter or olive oil.
• Make garlic bread, sandwiches, or bruschetta.
• Use stale bread for French toast or croutons.

Nutrition Per Slice (1/12th of a loaf):
Calories: 120 | Carbs: 24g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 0.5g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 200mg