Description
Enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness of homemade French bread rolls, perfectly golden and crusty on the outside while remaining soft and airy on the inside. These delightful rolls are ideal for any meal, whether served fresh out of the oven or as a tasty accompaniment to soups and salads.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling on top, optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour and salt. Add olive oil if using.
- Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough gently and turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (3-4 ounces each).
- Shape each piece into a roll by flattening it, folding the edges to the center, flipping it seam-side down, and rolling it into a smooth ball.
- Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If desired, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls for a shiny crust.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for added flavor and texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- For a crispy crust, place a small oven-safe dish of water on the bottom rack while baking.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and active.
- Adjust the amount of flour as needed based on humidity and dough consistency.
- These rolls can be stored in an airtight container for a few days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes