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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.
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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