Delight in the crusty perfection of French bread rolls, a staple for any meal.
Prep
20 min
Cook
25 min
Total
135 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, combine bread flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms.
Pro tip: Use warm water to activate the yeast effectively.
Knead the dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Pro tip: The dough should bounce back when poked.
First rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Pro tip: A warm, draft-free environment is ideal for rising.
Shape the rolls
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pro tip: Ensure each roll is evenly shaped for uniform baking.
Second rise
Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) while the rolls complete their second rise.
Pro tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
Bake the rolls
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Pro tip: For extra crispiness, add a small pan of water to the oven for steam.
Cool and serve
Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Pro tip: Cooling on a rack prevents soggy bottoms.
Tips & Tricks
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Allow ample rising time for a light, airy crumb.
- Slash the dough just before baking for that signature look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these French bread rolls to die for?
The perfect balance of a crispy crust and soft, airy interior makes these rolls irresistible.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour is recommended for a chewier texture.
How long do these rolls stay fresh?
They stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze these French bread rolls?
Yes, bake them first, then freeze. Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
How many calories are in one roll?
Each roll contains approximately 150 calories.
What temperature should the water be for the dough?
The water should be about 45°C (113°F) to activate the yeast.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
150
Calories
4g
Protein
1g
Fat
30g
Carbs
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Kitchen & BBQ gear
What we use for recipes like this
Baking · Pizza Pans
Norjac 12 Inch Pizza Pan with Holes, 2 Pack, Round Aluminum Pans for Oven, Rust-Free, Heavy-Duty, Perforated Baking Tray for Crispy Crust, Made in Canada
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BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · BBQ Accessories
15Pcs BBQ Accessories, BBQ Utensil Set Stainless Steel BBQ Tool Set, Portable Grill Tools Utensils Kit with Storage Bag
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Pit Boss Grills
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