Description
These Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls are the perfect blend of a crispy golden crust and a soft, chewy interior. These rolls are perfect for dinner, sandwiches, or as an accompaniment to any meal. Homemade French bread rolls are a delightful treat and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Rolls:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated. - Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together. - Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, but avoid adding too much to keep the rolls soft. - First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. - Shape the Rolls:
Punch down the risen dough to release the air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Second Rise:
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve doubled in size and are puffed up. - Preheat the Oven:
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Bake the Rolls:
Once the rolls have risen, use a sharp knife to make a small slash across the top of each roll for a classic French bread look. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. - Cool and Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, or use them for sandwiches!
Notes
- If you want a shinier crust, you can lightly brush the rolls with water before baking, or even spritz them with a bit of water halfway through baking.
- You can make these rolls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To refresh them, heat them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French