Rustic French Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rustic French bread is simple yet incredibly satisfying. The dough comes together with just flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and water, but the result is a beautifully textured loaf with the perfect balance of crust and softness. This bread is versatile, great for everything from a casual snack to a fancy meal. The slightly tangy flavor, combined with the crispy crust, will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups water (105 – 115 degrees)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water (105-115°F) with the sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed.
4. Let It Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a rustic, oblong loaf. Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a clean towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
7. Bake: Before placing the loaf in the oven, make a few shallow slashes on the top of the dough with a sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand while baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite spread or as a side to any meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 loaf (about 8-10 slices)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 hours (plus 30 minutes second rise)
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: For added flavor, mix in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough before the first rise.
• Cheese Bread: Add a handful of shredded cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, into the dough for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Bread: For a garlic-flavored bread, add garlic powder or freshly minced garlic into the dough or brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and garlic before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to maintain the crust. It can last for 2-3 days at room temperature.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it at room temperature and warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crust.

FAQs

1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour will work well in this recipe. It has a higher protein content, which will give the bread a slightly chewier texture.

2. What should the water temperature be when activating the yeast?

The water should be between 105-115°F. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly. A kitchen thermometer is helpful to get the right temperature.

3. Can I make this recipe in a bread machine?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Once the dough cycle is complete, you can shape and bake it in the oven as directed.

4. How can I make my French bread extra crispy?

For a crispier crust, place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking the bread. The steam will help create a crunchy crust.

5. Can I add seeds to the bread?

Yes, you can add seeds like sesame or poppy seeds to the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking for a delicious crunch.

6. What can I serve with this bread?

Rustic French bread is perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or as a base for sandwiches. You can also serve it with a variety of spreads, such as butter, garlic butter, or jam.

7. Can I make smaller loaves?

Yes, you can divide the dough in half to make two smaller loaves. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller loaves may bake faster.

8. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, and the crust is golden brown. You can also check with an instant-read thermometer, which should read around 200°F when inserted into the center of the loaf.

9. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the step of activating it in warm water—just add it directly to the dry ingredients.

10. Can I make this bread in a Dutch oven?

Yes, baking the bread in a preheated Dutch oven will give it a beautiful, crispy crust. Simply place the shaped dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover it with the lid, and bake it at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove the lid for the last 5-10 minutes to brown the top.

Conclusion

This Rustic French Bread recipe is an easy, satisfying way to enjoy fresh, homemade bread. With a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, dipping into soup, or just enjoying a slice with butter, this rustic loaf is sure to impress. The best part? It’s simple to make with just a few basic ingredients. So, grab your flour, yeast, and a little patience, and enjoy the delicious result!

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