How to Make French Bread at Home || French Bread Recipe

How to Make French Bread at Home

French Bread Recipe: 

French bread, also known as baguette, is a long, thin loaf of bread with a crisp crust and a soft interior. It is a staple in French cuisine and is popular all over the world. Making French bread at home is easier than you might think and you don't need any special equipment. Here's a simple recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

• 11/2 cups warm water

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope) active dry yeast

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 6 to 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• Cornmeal for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir until yeast and sugar are dissolved.

2. Add 4 cups of the flour to the bowl and stir until a soft dough forms. Gradually add more flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky and forms a smooth ball.

3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour.

5. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place a baking stone or heavy baking sheet on the middle rack to preheat.

6. Divide the dough into three equal portions and shape into long, thin loaves. Place the loaves on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet or piece of parchment paper.

7. Use a sharp knife to make shallow slashes in the top of each loaf. This will help the bread expand as it bakes.

8. Transfer the loaves to the preheated baking stone or heavy baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the interior is cooked through.

9. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade French bread with a spread of butter or a bowl of soup. You can also use it for sandwiches or toast it for breakfast. With this recipe, you can have fresh, delicious French bread any time you want. Happy baking!