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Overhead shot of a sliced loaf of bread on a cutting board, the golden crust showing a honeyed sheen and scattered with kosher salt flakes.

Small Loaf French Bread

Knead and shape a small loaf of French bread with honey and olive oil, baked until golden and hollow-sounding.
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Prep Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course Side Dish
Cuisine French
Servings 12 servings
Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 10 oz all-purpose or bread flour 284 g; 2 1/4 cups for one loaf; for a double batch, use 4 1/2 cups
  • 1 tsp kosher salt plus an extra 1/2 tsp for topping
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tbsp olive oil plus 1 tbsp for brushing the top
  • 6 fl oz warm water
  • 1/2 tsp active dry yeast

Instructions
 

  • Mix dry ingredients:

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, honey, olive oil, and warm water. Scatter the yeast over the water and let it dissolve.

  • Knead dough:

    Attach the paddle to a stand mixer and mix on medium speed until the dough begins to come together. Switch to the dough hook and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and clears the sides. If kneading manually, work on a floured counter for 15–20 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • First rise:

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm location for roughly 1 hour until doubled. Test by pressing a finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, it is ready.

  • Deflate and rest:

    Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead 4–5 times to release air. Cover with a dish towel and allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes.

  • Shape loaf:

    Shape the dough into a round boule, an oval, or a 6x3-inch rectangle for a baguette. For a baguette, press the ends down with the heel of your hand to seal. Set it on a baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour until puffy.

  • Slash and season:

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Using a sharp knife, make one slash across the top of the loaf. Brush with 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp kosher salt.

  • Bake bread:

    Bake for 18–20 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow when done.

  • Cool and serve:

    Allow to cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Keyword 1 hour bread recipe, bread recipes, simple bread recipe, small loaf french bread