Classic Homemade French Bread

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Classic Homemade French Bread

This recipe yields a loaf with a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, airy crumb, much like the one you’ve shared.

  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Rise time: 1.5–2 hours

  • Bake time: 25–30 minutes

  • Yields: 1 large loaf

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ tsp Active Dry Yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 ½ cups Warm water (approx. 110°F)

  • 1 tbsp Honey or sugar

  • 1 ½ tsp Salt

  • 3 ½ to 4 cups Bread flour (all-purpose works, but bread flour provides better chew)

  • 1 Egg white + 1 tbsp water (for the egg wash)

Instructions

1. Bloom the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

Add the salt and 2 cups of flour. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, half a cup at a time, until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

3. Knead

  • By Hand: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • Stand Mixer: Use the dough hook on medium-low speed for about 5–7 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape and Score

Gently punch the dough down to release air. On a lightly floured surface, shape it into a long, tapered rectangle and roll it up tightly into a loaf shape. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a sharp knife or a lame to create 3–4 diagonal slashes across the top (just like in your photo!).

6. Second Rise

Cover the loaf loosely and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes. While it rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. The Secret to the Crust

Whisk the egg white and water together. Generously brush the top and sides of the loaf with the egg wash—this creates that beautiful shiny, golden-brown finish. For an extra-crispy crust, you can place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.

8. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes. The bread is done when it is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Perfect Pairing

To elevate your Monterey Sausage Pie experience, try slicing this bread warm and brushing it with a little garlic butter. It’s the perfect tool for cleaning up every last bit of that savory egg and cheese filling!

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