Name: French Loaf Bread
Ingredients: 350 g water (1½ cups) — Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast, forming the base of the dough.; 1 tsp sugar — Helps feed the yeast, supporting a good rise.; 1 tsp yeast — The leavening agent that gives this bread its rise and airy texture.; 2 tbsp oil — Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.; 415 g flour (about 3⅓ cups) — Forms the structure of the bread, providing the base for that classic French loaf texture.; 1 tsp salt — Essential for flavor, salt also helps strengthen the dough and regulate the yeast’s activity.

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this simple, crusty French loaf and why each ingredient matters.

350 g water (1½ cups) — Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast, forming the base of the dough.
1 tsp sugar — Helps feed the yeast, supporting a good rise.
1 tsp yeast — The leavening agent that gives this bread its rise and airy texture.
2 tbsp oil — Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
415 g flour (about 3⅓ cups) — Forms the structure of the bread, providing the base for that classic French loaf texture.
1 tsp salt — Essential for flavor, salt also helps strengthen the dough and regulate the yeast’s activity.

Instructions

This recipe comes together in a few simple stages. Here’s exactly how to make it.

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the water, sugar, and yeast. Stir in the oil, then add the flour and mix until a sticky dough forms. Add the salt and do one set of coil folds until the dough starts to come together. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Fold and Rise

Do another set of coil folds, then cover and let the dough rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Loaf

Lightly flour your work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Fold the dough in from the sides to shape it, then carefully pick it up and place it onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rest for 14 minutes.

Step 4: Score and Bake

Score the top with a sharp knife and bake in a preheated 460°F (238°C) oven for 10 minutes. Lower the temperature to 360°F (182°C) and continue baking for 15 minutes.