Fontbonne Bread
Fontbonne Bread offers a classic, hearty loaf with a crisp crust and soft interior, perfect for sandwiches or enjoying with butter, suited for bread lovers of all levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast dissolved in 2 1/2 cups warm water; gradually add 3 to 3 1/2 cups flour and mix well with a mixer.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead well.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Spread melted butter on a baking sheet and sprinkle with cornmeal.
- Place shaped loaves or rolls on the prepared sheet and allow to rise again.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Optional: brush with butter or sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier texture, ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm but not hot. If you don't have cornmeal, you can use flour or parchment paper to prevent sticking. For a touch of flavor, consider adding herbs or garlic to the melted butter before brushing. This Fontbonne Bread pairs beautifully with Busy Day Oven Stew for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fontbonne Bread warm with a spread of butter or your favorite jam. It complements soups, salads, or can be enjoyed alongside a hearty main dish. For a delightful brunch, slice it and serve with Strawberry Orange Punch or a fresh fruit salad. This bread is versatile enough to enhance various meals, making it a great addition to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fontbonne Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fontbonne Bread contains roughly 142 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 936mg per serving (41% 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 whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser loaf. You may need to adjust the water slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C) for fully baked bread.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this Fontbonne Bread vegan, simply omit the butter used for greasing the baking sheet and the optional brushing. You can use vegetable oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead to maintain moisture.
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).