Print

Easy 1-Hour Homemade French Bread

Close-up of a freshly baked french bread loaf cut in half, showing the airy, open crumb structure.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make soft, fluffy French bread with a golden, crusty exterior in about one hour. This beginner-friendly recipe uses simple ingredients for bakery-style quality at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
  • Water (for steam bath)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
  2. Pour in the warm water and mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
  5. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This is the quick rise time.
  6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam later.
  7. Gently punch down the dough. Divide it in half. Shape each half into a long, thin loaf (a baguette shape).
  8. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let rest for 10 minutes.
  9. Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with olive oil. Score the tops of each loaf 3 to 4 times diagonally with a sharp knife.
  10. Carefully pour 1 cup of hot water into the preheated shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
  11. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  12. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

  • For a crustier exterior, spray the sides of the oven with water 2-3 times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you prefer a softer crust, skip the steam bath step and brush the loaves with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
  • This recipe is excellent for making homemade French bread for dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/easy-1-hour-homemade-french-bread/