When it comes to bread, few styles are as beloved and iconic as French bread. Its crispy crust and soft, airy interior make it a staple in many households. However, for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, enjoying this classic can be challenging. Enter artisan-style gluten-free French bread—a recipe that brings the joy of a freshly baked loaf to everyone’s table.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To create this delicious gluten-free French bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum or guar gum)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or one packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
The Method:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your bread rise.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour and salt. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to avoid any clumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar to the dry ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be thick and sticky.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf or baguette shape on the prepared baking sheet. Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow slashes on the top of the dough for a rustic appearance.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped dough loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes. It should puff up slightly.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the bread in the preheated oven. For a crispy crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. This will ensure the crumb sets perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Loaf:
- Flour Blend: Ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan or guar gum. If not, you may need to add it separately for structure.
- Consistency: Gluten-free doughs are generally stickier than traditional doughs. Resist the urge to add more flour.
- Steam: Creating steam in the oven is key to achieving that iconic crispy crust.
With this artisan-style gluten-free French bread recipe, you can relish the joys of freshly baked bread without the gluten. Whether enjoyed with a slather of butter, dipped into soup, or as the foundation for a delicious sandwich, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your gluten-free baking repertoire. Happy baking!