Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls

Why Make This Recipe

Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls are perfect for any meal. Their crispy outside and soft, chewy inside make them a favorite at dinner tables. They are easy to make and filled with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. These rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed with soups, salads, and spreads. Plus, the smell of freshly baked bread is hard to resist!

How to Make Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 3/4 cups warm water
• Butter (for serving)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for about 12-18 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly, then serve warm with butter.

How to Serve Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls

These rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. You can slice them open and spread some butter on top for added flavor. They also pair well with soups, stews, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy them as a side dish, or use them to make sandwiches.

How to Store Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls

To store leftover rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in a plastic bag or an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven.

Tips to Make Crusty Chewy French Bread Rolls

• Make sure the water is warm, but not hot. Too hot water can kill the yeast.
• Letting the dough rise for a long time enhances the flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip preheating the Dutch oven; this helps create a crispy crust.
• If the dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour during shaping, but not too much.

Variation

You could add herbs or garlic to the dough for extra flavor. Mixing in cheese or olives can also make a fun twist on the original recipe.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour can be used, and it will lead to an even chewier texture.

How long does the dough need to rise?
The dough should rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature to develop flavor.

Can I make these rolls smaller?
Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller pieces before shaping them. Just adjust the baking time slightly.

Print