Go Back
Crusty French Bread Rolls

Crusty French Bread Rolls

These Crusty French Bread Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. With their golden, crispy crust and soft, airy interior, they are ideal for accompanying soups, salads, or enjoying on their own with butter.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Bread
Cuisine French
Servings 4 People
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 wooden spoon or dough scraper
  • 1 baking sheet
  • 1 parchment paper
  • 1 kitchen towel
  • 1 instant-read thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • cornmeal (for dusting, optional)
  • parchment paper (for baking)

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  • In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  • Use a wooden spoon or dough scraper to combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  • Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces.
  • Shape each piece into a round roll and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle cornmeal on the parchment to prevent sticking.
  • Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until doubled.
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Just before baking, make a few shallow slashes on top of each roll using a sharp knife for a decorative effect.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty. The internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C) for fully baked rolls.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
For an extra crusty texture, place a pan of boiling water in the oven while baking to create steam.