Julia Child French Bread Recipe

Posted by Jennifer Rose
Julia Child French Bread Recipe

Making bread at home is fun. This Julia Child French Bread recipe is special. It lets you bake amazing French bread.

You will love the crust. The inside is soft and airy. This Julia Child French Bread recipe brings joy.

It is a classic. Learn how to make Julia Child French Bread recipe.

When I First Tried Julia Child French Bread

I first saw this recipe years ago. It seemed hard then. But Julia Child makes it simple. Her steps are clear.

I followed them one day. The smell filled my kitchen. It was wonderful. The bread was perfect.

I was so proud. You can do it too.

Julia Child French Bread

Equipment List

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or razor blade
  • Spray bottle
  • Oven

Ingredients You Need for Julia Child French Bread

  • 3 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 7 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Activate Yeast:
  2. Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes. It should get foamy.
  3. Combine Ingredients:
  4. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  5. Knead the Dough:
  6. Knead for 10 minutes. Do this by hand or with a mixer. The dough should be smooth.
  7. First Rise:
  8. Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover it. Let it rise for 1.5-2 hours. It should double in size.
  9. Shape Loaves:
  10. Punch down the dough. Divide it into three parts. Shape each into a long loaf.
  11. Second Rise:
  12. Place loaves on parchment paper. Cover them. Let them rise for 45-60 minutes.
  13. Preheat Oven:
  14. Heat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a pan of water on the bottom rack.
  15. Score Loaves:
  16. Make slashes on top of each loaf. Use a sharp knife.
  17. Bake Bread:
  18. Spray loaves with water. Put them in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Spray with water often. This creates a crispy crust.
  19. Cool:
  20. Let bread cool on a rack. This makes it perfect.

Tips to Make the Best Julia Child French Bread

  • Use fresh yeast. This helps the rise.
  • Measure flour correctly. Too much makes it dry.
  • Do not rush the rising. Patience is key.
  • Use a hot oven. Steam creates a good crust.
  • Bake until golden brown. Tap the bottom. It should sound hollow.

FAQs about Julia Child French Bread

  • Can I use instant yeast?
  • Yes, use the same amount. No need to activate it first.
  • Why is my bread dense?
  • You might need more kneading. Or it did not rise enough.
  • How do I store French bread?
  • Keep it at room temperature. Use a paper bag.
  • Can I freeze French bread?
  • Yes, wrap it tightly. It stays fresh for a month.
  • What if I don’t have a spray bottle?
  • You can throw ice cubes in the hot pan. This creates steam.

Final Thoughts

This Julia Child French Bread recipe is a treat. It’s rewarding to bake. Your home will smell amazing.

Enjoy fresh, homemade bread. Share it with loved ones. Happy baking!

Julia Child French Bread Recipe

Julia Child French Bread Recipe

Making bread at home is fun. This Julia Child French Bread recipe is special. It lets you bake amazing French bread.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups warm water 105-115°F
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 7 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions
 

  • Activate Yeast:
  • Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes. It should get foamy.
  • Combine Ingredients:
  • Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough:
  • Knead for 10 minutes. Do this by hand or with a mixer. The dough should be smooth.
  • First Rise:
  • Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover it. Let it rise for 1.5-2 hours. It should double in size.
  • Shape Loaves:
  • Punch down the dough. Divide it into three parts. Shape each into a long loaf.
  • Second Rise:
  • Place loaves on parchment paper. Cover them. Let them rise for 45-60 minutes.
  • Preheat Oven:
  • Heat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a pan of water on the bottom rack.
  • Score Loaves:
  • Make slashes on top of each loaf. Use a sharp knife.
  • Bake Bread:
  • Spray loaves with water. Put them in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Spray with water often. This creates a crispy crust.
  • Cool:
  • Let bread cool on a rack. This makes it perfect.

Notes

  • Use fresh yeast. This helps the rise.
  • Measure flour correctly. Too much makes it dry.
  • Do not rush the rising. Patience is key.
  • Use a hot oven. Steam creates a good crust.
  • Bake until golden brown. Tap the bottom. It should sound hollow.
Keyword Julia Child French Bread Recipe