Name: Rustic French Bread Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 410 grams all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon fine salt; 1.5 teaspoons active dry yeast; 300 milliliters warm water (38 – 46 °C)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

Rustic French Bread Loaf is a classic that brings a bit of France into your kitchen. This simple yet satisfying bread features a crispy crust and soft, chewy interior. Making it at home isn’t just rewarding; the aroma of freshly baked bread fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere. Plus, it’s a fantastic accompaniment to soups, stews, or just a slice with butter.

how to make Rustic French Bread Loaf

Ingredients:

410 grams all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon fine salt
1.5 teaspoons active dry yeast
300 milliliters warm water (38 – 46 °C)

Directions:

Combine active dry yeast, warm water, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Allow this mixture to rest for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, which means the yeast is activated.
Add half of the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Attach the dough hook to your mixer and knead on medium-low speed. Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading until the dough starts to form and is sticky to the touch.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours until it has doubled in size.
Place the dough on a well-floured surface or parchment paper. Shape it gently into a smooth ball, dust with additional flour, and then cover it with a large inverted bowl. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 220 °C, placing a Dutch oven with its lid inside to heat for 20 minutes. Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife. Carefully place the dough on parchment paper into the heated Dutch oven.
Bake the bread covered for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden brown. If using a baking sheet, bake for 35 minutes. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches around 99 °C.
Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days.

how to serve Rustic French Bread Loaf

Rustic French Bread Loaf is delicious served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy it plain, spread with butter, or with your favorite jam. It also works great as a side to soups and salads. For a classic French experience, try it with some cheese and charcuterie.

how to store Rustic French Bread Loaf

To keep your Rustic French Bread Loaf fresh, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag.

tips to make Rustic French Bread Loaf

Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best results.
If your kitchen is cool, you might want to let the dough rise in a slightly warm area, or even the oven with the light on.
Don’t skip the resting and rising times; they are key to developing the bread’s flavor and texture.
Experiment with adding herbs or cheeses to the dough for a variation on the classic recipe.

variation

For a flavorful twist, try adding 100 grams of olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough during mixing. This will give your Rustic French Bread a delicious, Mediterranean flair.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser bread. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough does not rise, ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature was right. It might also need a warmer environment.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of about 99 °C indicates it’s fully baked.