Quick French Bread
A crusty, flavorful French bread with a tender interior, perfect for sandwiches or enjoyed with butter. Easy to make at home with basic ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add hot tap water gradually, beating on low speed for 2 minutes.
- Add margarine and 2 cups of flour, beating for 2 minutes on medium speed.
- Mix in 2 1/2 to 3 cups of flour on medium speed to make a soft dough.
- Mix well from the bottom of the bowl with a spoon.
- Cover the dough and let rise for 45 minutes in a warm place, or until doubled in size.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter to the dough. If you don't have dry yeast, you can substitute it with active dry yeast, but make sure to proof it first. For variation, try adding herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to the dough, reminiscent of flavors found in Homemade German Butterhours.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Quick French Bread warm with a spread of butter or olive oil for dipping. It pairs beautifully with soups and salads, making it a perfect side for a hearty meal. For a delightful twist, use the bread for sandwiches or toast it and top with your favorite spreads or toppings. Try it alongside Vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover French bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, remove from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crusty exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick French Bread contains roughly 2187 calories, with 43g protein, 447g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (86% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2950mg per serving (128% 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 make this bread without sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or eliminate the sugar in the recipe. However, sugar helps with browning and adds a slight sweetness that complements the bread's flavor. If you prefer a savory loaf, consider adding herbs or spices instead.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure the water is not too hot, which can kill the yeast. Try placing the dough in a warmer area or using a slightly warmer water temperature next time.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or olives to the dough?
Absolutely! You can fold in grated cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes during the mixing stage for added flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it could affect the dough's consistency.
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).