Fantastic French Bread
Crusty French bread with a tender interior, perfect for sandwiches, dips, or enjoying on its own. Its classic flavor and crispy crust make it a favorite for bread lovers and those seeking fresh baked goodness at home. Ideal for casual family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the yeast in warm water.
- Mix together the yeast, sugar, salt, shortening, and flour.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
- Press down the dough to deflate it.
- Divide the dough into 4 balls.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape the dough into rolls or loaves.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the water is warm but not hot, around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook if available to save time and effort.
Serving Suggestions
This French bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply with butter. Serve alongside a bowl of French Cabbage Soup for a hearty meal or slice it to accompany a cheese platter. It also pairs beautifully with Shaker Corn Relish for a tangy twist. Enjoy fresh out of the oven with your favorite spreads.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover French bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread, wrapped well, for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fantastic French Bread contains roughly 537 calories, with 14g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2537mg per serving (110% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, whole wheat flour absorbs more water, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose to maintain the bread's texture.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels puffy to the touch. You can do the 'poke test' by gently pressing your finger into the dough; if it springs back slowly and leaves an impression, it’s ready for shaping.
What can I do if the bread doesn't rise?
If the bread doesn’t rise, check that your yeast is fresh and that the water was at the right temperature. If the dough is too cold, find a warm spot in your kitchen, like near a preheated oven, to encourage rising. You can also let it rise for a longer time if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).