Crusty French Bread Rolls (Print Version)

Golden crispy rolls with tender interior. Perfect warm with butter, soups, or sandwiches.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

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

→ Topping

06 - 1 tablespoon flour for dusting

# How-To Steps:

01 - Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let stand 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 - Lightly dust tops with flour. 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 cool completely.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The steam trick creates bakery worthy crustiness at home
  • These rolls freeze beautifully and reheat like they were fresh baked
02 -
  • The water tray in the oven is non negotiable for that authentic French bakery crust
  • Letting the dough rise twice develops flavor that you cant rush or fake
03 -
  • Use a spray bottle to mist the oven walls instead of a water tray for easier cleanup
  • Let the rolls cool completely before storing or theyll get soggy inside

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