Crusty French Bread Rolls (Print Version)

Golden, crispy rolls with tender centers. Classic French technique, perfect for any meal.

# What You Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour
02 - 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
03 - 2 tsp active dry yeast
04 - 1 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1 tsp sugar

→ Topping

06 - 1 tbsp flour for dusting

# How To Make:

01 - Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
04 - Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball or oval.
05 - Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let rise for 30-40 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a tray of water on the bottom rack to create steam for a crustier roll.
07 - Dust tops lightly with flour and slash each roll with a sharp knife. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crusty.
08 - Transfer rolls to a wire rack and let cool completely before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The crust crackles when you bite into it, giving way to the softest, most tender interior you have ever tasted
  • These rolls transform a simple weeknight dinner into something that feels like a special occasion
02 -
  • The steam trick is non negotiable, without it you will get soft rolls instead of the shattering crust you want
  • Let the rolls cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into them or the inside will be gummy
03 -
  • Weighing your flour is much more accurate than using measuring cups, which can vary wildly depending on how you scoop
  • If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in the oven with just the light on, it creates the perfect warm environment

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