How to Get a Crispy Crust on French Bread

Properly baked French bread has a crispy crust.

Many know French bread by its distinctly crispy crust. It's possible for anyone to replicate the crispiness of authentic French bread in a regular oven at home. The crispy crust isn't achieved by cooking it longer. In addition to the crispy crust, French bread has a soft, chewy middle. French bread, like any bread, tastes best fresh, so make the bread the day you plan to serve it. Pair the bread with pasta, fish and almost any other dish.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup water
• Oven-safe bowl or pan

Instructions

1. Turn the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the French bread dough for 11 to 14 minutes, and then drop the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the oven-safe bowl or pan on the rack under the bread.

2. Pour one cup of water inside an oven safe bowl or pan. Place the pan inside the over on the rack below the bread. Bake to bread as the recipe requires.

3. Remove the bread once it is done cooking.

References

• Steamy Kitchen: How to Make the Perfect Loaf of French Bread
• Baking 911: French Bread