How to get a terrific, crunchy crust on your French bread

I love a good loaf of French bread! I want it crunchy and crumbly on the outside and chewy on the inside. This is the trick to get that lovely, crunchy crust!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Your favorite French bread recipe
• a spray bottle
• tap water
• a kitchen timer

1. Pre-heat your oven according to your recipe. Many of us skip this step, but it really does make a difference!

2. Make the loaves according to your recipe. It doesn't matter if you make it by hand or use a bread machine, this trick works with both methods!

3. Place the loaves in the oven. Do NOT brush butter or egg on the crust. Instead, fill your spray bottle with tap water and spray it lightly.

4. Here's the secret! Set your kitchen timer for 15 minutes. When it rings, open the oven and spray the loaves with tap water again. REPEAT THIS STEP EVERY 15 MINUTES. This is what gives the crust that lovely crunchy texture!

Tips & Warnings

• Some people place a shallow pan of water in the oven with the loaves. Apparently, the steam from the water performs the same function as spraying the loaves. I have never tried this method.