Name: Rustic French Bread Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 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)

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A simple, crusty loaf you can bake at home with few ingredients and easy steps.

introduction

This Rustic French Bread Loaf makes a crisp crust and a soft inside. It uses common ingredients and one rise. The method is simple and works in a Dutch oven or on a baking sheet. It fits well for daily use or for a small gathering.

why make this recipe

It gives a great crust and open crumb without tricky steps.
You need simple pantry items most people have.
It is fast to mix and needs only one long rise.
The loaf stores well for a few days and is good for sandwiches, toast, or soup.

how to make Rustic French Bread Loaf

Follow the steps below. The dough is sticky at first. Use flour on your hands and surface to shape.

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 the mixing bowl. Allow to rest for 5 minutes to activate the yeast until foamy.
Add half of the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Attach the dough hook to the mixer and knead on medium-low speed.
Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading until the dough just begins to form and is sticky to the touch.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise at room temperature for 2 hours until doubled in size.
Place the dough on a well-floured surface or parchment paper. Shape gently into a smooth ball, dust with additional flour, then cover with a large inverted bowl and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 220 °C and place 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 into the heated Dutch oven.
Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown. If using a baking sheet, bake for 35 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches approximately 99 °C.
Remove bread from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days.

how to serve Rustic French Bread Loaf

Slice thin for sandwiches or thick for toast.
Serve warm with butter, jam, or olive oil and herbs.
Pair with soups, stews, or a cheese board.

how to store Rustic French Bread Loaf

Let the loaf cool fully before storing.
Keep at room temperature in an airtight container or bread box for 3–5 days.
For longer storage, slice and freeze. Thaw slices at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.

tips to make Rustic French Bread Loaf

Use warm water (38–46 °C) to help yeast activate but not kill it.
Dough should be slightly sticky; add small flour amounts only if very wet.
Heat the Dutch oven well for a better crust and steam effect.
Score the dough with one or two shallow cuts to control bursting.
Let the bread cool fully before slicing to keep the crumb set.

variation (if any)

Add 1–2 tablespoons olive oil for a softer crust.
Mix in 1 tablespoon herbs (rosemary or thyme) for flavor.
Use half bread flour for a chewier texture.
Make small rolls using the same dough and bake 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this by hand without a mixer?
A: Yes. Mix with a wooden spoon and knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until the dough comes together.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes. Reduce proofing time. Mix instant yeast with the flour and skip the 5-minute activation step.

Q: Why is the bread dense?
A: Possible reasons: under-proofing, too much flour, or not enough kneading. Ensure rise times and measure flour by weight.

Q: Can I bake without a Dutch oven?
A: Yes. Use a baking sheet and bake for about 35 minutes. Add a tray of hot water in the oven for steam if you want a crispier crust.

Q: How do I get a very crusty outside?
A: Bake in a hot, preheated Dutch oven and remove the lid near the end. Also let the oven steam at the start by adding water to a hot tray.

Conclusion

If you want to watch an easy video on making crusty French-style bread, see this helpful guide: Easy Crusty French Bread (VIDEO) – Life As A Strawberry