Best 2 Fabulous French Loaves Recipes

In the realm of French baking, few creations are as iconic as the classic French loaf. These long, slender loaves, with their golden-brown crusts and airy interiors, have captivated taste buds for centuries. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this definitive guide to French loaves will equip you with all the knowledge and techniques you need to create these delectable masterpieces in your own kitchen. Discover the secrets behind the perfect sourdough loaf, with its tangy flavor and chewy texture. Learn how to craft the ultimate baguette, with its crispy exterior and light, airy crumb. And for a touch of sweetness, try your hand at the irresistible brioche loaf, with its rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture. Each recipe is carefully explained with step-by-step instructions, ensuring success even for novice bakers. So don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delightful journey into the world of French loaves.

Let's cook with our recipes!

FABULOUS FRENCH LOAVES

Fabulous French Loaves image

Just like I'd buy in the stores! Makes a great garlic bread. Mixing it will give your arm a workout, so use a sturdy spoon!

Provided by Liz Langston

Categories Bread Yeast Bread Recipes White Bread Recipes

Time 2h45m

Yield 30

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
½ cup warm water (110 degrees F)
2 cups water
6 cups bread flour
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon white sugar
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 egg white, beaten
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Steps:

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 cups water, 3 cups flour, salt, sugar and vegetable oil; stir well to combine. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
Divide dough half. Roll each half into a 9 x 12 rectangle and roll up jelly roll style, starting at long edge. Seal edges and place seam side down on a large baking sheet that has been sprinkled with cornmeal.
Use a sharp knife to slash each loaf diagonally 3 times. Brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover and allow to rise 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 27.3 calories, Carbohydrate 1.1 g, Fat 2.5 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 0.4 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 234.8 mg, Sugar 0.4 g

FABULOUS FRENCH LOAVES

FABULOUS FRENCH LOAVES image

Categories Game Bread

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 packets (.25 ounce) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (100 degreese F)
2 cups water
6 cups bread flour
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon white sugar
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 egg white, beaten
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Steps:

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 cups water, 3 cups flour, salt, sugar and vegetable oil; stir well to combine. Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes
Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
Divide dough half. Roll each half into a 9 x 12 rectangle and roll up jelly roll style, starting at long edge. Seal edges and place seam side down on a large baking sheet that has been sprinkled with cornmeal.
Use a sharp knife to slash each loaf diagonally 3 times. Brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover and allow to rise 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the quality of your bread. Use unbleached all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and fine sea salt.
Follow the recipe carefully. Bread baking is a precise process, so it's important to follow the recipe carefully. Don't skip any steps or substitute ingredients unless you know what you're doing.
Knead the dough properly. Kneading the dough develops the gluten, which gives bread its structure. Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise in a warm place. The dough needs to rise in a warm place in order to double in size. This will take about 1-2 hours.
Bake the bread in a preheated oven. The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before you put the bread in. This will help the bread to rise evenly.
Let the bread cool before slicing. Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing it. This will help the bread to keep its shape.

Conclusion:

French loaves are a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They are perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply as a side dish. With a little practice, you can easily make French loaves at home. So next time you're looking for a delicious and satisfying bread, give this recipe a try!