Sourdough French Bread

Name: Sourdough French Bread
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: PT-491185H41M40S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1000 grams all-purpose flour; 770 grams water; 20 grams salt (you can adjust this up to 25 grams based on your preference); 150 grams sourdough starter

By:

Sarah

Published:

October 31, 2025

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It’s hard to resist the allure of a fresh loaf of Sourdough French Bread, isn’t it? The way it fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma alone can make anyone feel at home. Imagine cutting into that golden crust, the knife sinking into the tender, chewy inside, and you can hear that satisfying crackle. It’s a creation that not only looks beautiful but tastes heavenly, too. Whether you’re dreaming of warm toast slathered with butter or a delightful sandwich, this loaf has you covered. Plus, the process of sourdough fermentation adds a special depth of flavor and texture that is simply unmatched. Gather your ingredients, maybe throw on your favorite playlist, and let’s make some magical bread together!

Why This Recipe Works

The heart of any great Sourdough French Bread lies in its fermentation. The science of sourdough involves a lovely dance between wild yeast and bacteria, creating a wonderful fermentation process. This journey develops rich flavors and a unique texture. Because we use a long fermentation, the flavor comes out beautifully. Plus, a high hydration dough boosts an airy crumb and gives you that fantastic crusty exterior everyone loves. You’re not just baking; you’re engaging in a timeless craft that’s both science and art.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough French Bread

This Sourdough French Bread guarantees a bakery-quality loaf right from the comfort of your kitchen. The tender, fluffy interior contrasts beautifully with the wonderfully crunchy crust. It’s not just any bread; it’s perfect for creating luscious sandwiches, soaking up soups, or simply enjoying with a little butter. Each bite speaks to the effort and passion you’ve dedicated to the art of bread-making. Once you taste it, you’ll understand just how special this bread is.

Ingredients

To create this masterpiece, you’ll need:

1000 grams all-purpose flour
770 grams water
20 grams salt (you can adjust this up to 25 grams based on your preference)
150 grams sourdough starter

These simple ingredients combine to create something extraordinary.

Dough Preparation

Mix Flour and Water

Let’s kick off this process! In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 1000 grams of all-purpose flour with 770 grams of water. Stir the mixture until it’s fully blended. After that, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 45 minutes. This period allows the flour to fully hydrate, and it’s a key step in developing flavor.

Incorporate Salt and Starter

Once the rest is done, it’s time to mix in the salt and your sourdough starter. Add 20 grams of salt and 150 grams of starter to the bowl. Get your hands in there and mix the ingredients until they’re well combined. Cover it again and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes. This is a crucial time for the flavors to mingle and the dough to develop its structure.

Stretch and Fold Dough

Now comes the fun part! For about a minute, gently pinch an edge of the dough and pull it toward the center. Fold it in and repeat this around the bowl. Cover it again and let it rest for 30 more minutes. You’ll want to perform this stretch and fold process a total of four times. This technique helps strengthen the gluten, giving your bread that perfect texture.

Proof the Dough

After your folds, it’s time to let the dough proof. Ideally, find a cozy spot at room temperature—somewhere between 65 and 74℉ is perfect. Let it sit for about 12 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and you can see lovely bubbles forming. That’s a great sign of a ferment that’s developing beautifully!

Forming and Baking

Preheat the Oven

Before you start shaping, preheat your oven to 425℉. Make sure to do this at least 30 minutes before you plan to bake. It’s essential for getting that crust crispy!

Shape the Dough

Spray a French bread pan with some cooking spray and lightly flour a flat surface. Using a dough scraper, carefully transfer the dough onto the floured surface. Pinch and stretch the edges toward the center to tighten it up. Now, slice the dough evenly into two parts.

Final Loaf Preparation

Flatten each loaf slightly, then roll them tightly, starting with the top. Place the loaves seam side down into the prepared pan. Cover them with a towel or plastic wrap that’s lightly coated in cooking spray, and let them rest for 20 to 30 minutes. This gives the bread time to relax before baking.

Create Slashes and Bake

Here comes the exciting part! Make 3 to 4 shallow cuts on top of each loaf using a sharp knife or bread lame. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until you see that golden brown crust forming. When done, turn off the oven and leave the bread inside with the door slightly ajar for about 20 to 30 minutes. This extra step helps develop that coveted crackly crust.

Cool the Bread

Lastly, remove the loaves from the pan and allow them to cool completely before you slice or package them. This cooling time is essential to stabilize the structure.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this delectable Sourdough French Bread, how to enjoy it? Here are a few ideas:

Drizzle slices with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delightful appetizer.
Pair with hearty soups or fresh salads to make a complete meal.
For a special breakfast, toast slices and top them with avocado or jam.

Each option just showcases how versatile this bread can be!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Sourdough French Bread turns out beautifully:
– Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly.
– Keep an eye on the dough’s consistency; adjust the hydration if it feels too dry or sticky.
– Watch the bread while it’s baking, as it can brown too quickly if not monitored.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch things up.
– Add fresh herbs or garlic for a savory twist that will impress your guests.
– Incorporate cheese right into the dough for extra flavor.
– Experiment with whole wheat flour to create a denser loaf that’s packed with nutrients.

Storage Tips

To keep your bread fresh:
– Store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days.
– For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy your Sourdough French Bread even beyond its fresh-baked days.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Sure! Just be ready to adjust the water to keep the dough properly hydrated.

2. How do I know my sourdough starter is ready to use?
Your starter should be bubbly and have doubled in size within about 4 to 6 hours after feeding. A pleasant aroma is also a good sign!

3. Is it necessary to use a French bread pan?
Not at all! While a pan helps maintain shape and crust, you can bake free-form on a baking stone or sheet.

4. Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! You can mix and knead by hand without any issues.

5. How long does it take to rise?
The dough typically rises for about 12 hours; however, this can vary based on the temperature and humidity around it.

Getting into the kitchen to bake this Sourdough French Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with creativity. The process connects you to tradition, and when that warm, golden loaf emerges from the oven, it’s pure joy. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this delicious creation with friends and family. Happy baking!