Henriette'S Easy French Bread
Henriette's Easy French Bread offers a soft, crusty loaf with rich buttery notes and a slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, with soups, or enjoyed simply with butter, this homemade bread is simple to prepare and yields impressive, bakery-quality results suited for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 1 cup warm water in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle in 2 envelopes of yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let stand until yeast rises.
- Put remaining 1 1/2 cups of water in a small pot and then add 3 tablespoons of butter, 1 level tablespoon salt, and 4 tablespoons of sugar.
- Simmer until all ingredients are melted.
- Cool until lukewarm.
- Combine the yeast mixture with the cooled mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add 5 to 6 cups of flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
- Place in a greased baking pan and let rise until doubled.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs or garlic to the dough. If you're out of fresh yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast (1 envelope equals about 2 1/4 teaspoons). Ensure the water is not too hot when mixing with yeast, as it can kill the yeast. To enhance the crust, steam the oven during the first few minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French bread warm with a spread of butter or alongside a bowl of hearty soup for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Honey Nut Spread for a sweet twist. You can also use it for sandwiches or toast it for breakfast. Consider serving it with a side of your favorite vegetarian recipes for a wholesome feast.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat slices in a toaster or wrap the loaf in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Henriette'S Easy French Bread contains roughly 661 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this bread with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give the bread a nuttier flavor and denser texture. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the water slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or insufficient warmth. Check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure your water is at the right temperature (around 110°F or 43°C). Try placing the dough in a warmer spot, like an oven with the light on, to encourage rising.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it has a golden brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; it should register around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked. Letting it cool on a wire rack helps maintain its texture.
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).