How To Make French Bread In The Oven: The Ultimate Guide

Mastering the art of baking French bread at home is an endeavor that will reward you with warm, crusty loaves that rival those from any bakery. This detailed guide will walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the dough to achieving the perfect golden-brown crust.

Ingredients for French Bread

• 3 cups (360g) bread flour
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

Preparation:

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture.

3. Mix and Knead the Dough

Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Rest and Rise:

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Punch Down and Shape

Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air bubbles. Divide it in half and shape it into two loaves. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Second Rise

Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.

Baking:

7. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

8. Score the Loaves

Using a sharp knife, score the tops of the loaves with diagonal cuts. This will allow the bread to expand during baking.

9. Bake the Bread

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

10. Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect French Bread:

• Use high-quality bread flour, which has a higher protein content, resulting in a stronger dough and crispier crust.
• Handle the dough gently to avoid deflating it.
• Proof the dough in a warm place, such as a turned-off oven with the light on.
• Do not overbake the bread, as it will become dry and tough.

Troubleshooting:

• If the dough is too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
• If the dough is too dry, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
• If the bread is not rising properly, check that the yeast is active and that the dough is in a warm place.

The Enduring Appeal of French Bread

French bread is a culinary staple that has captivated taste buds for centuries. Its crusty exterior and airy interior make it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether enjoyed with butter, cheese, or a hearty stew, French bread is a true testament to the art of baking.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast. Reduce the amount to 3/4 teaspoon (3.5g) and add it directly to the dry ingredients.

Q: How can I store French bread?
A: Store French bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Why is my French bread dense?
A: Dense bread can be caused by overworking the dough, not kneading it enough, or not letting it rise for long enough.