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Homemade Fougasse

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A rustic French fougasse bread with a crisp golden crust and soft, airy interior, beautifully shaped like a leaf and perfect served warm with olive oil, soups, or salads.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
  • Coarse sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture and stir until a rough dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Gently deflate the dough and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Shape into an oval. Using a sharp knife, cut slits in a leaf pattern and gently stretch the openings.
  8. Cover loosely and let rise again for 20–30 minutes.
  9. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary and coarse sea salt, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • You can fold chopped olives, cheese, or herbs into the dough for variation.
  • For a sweeter version, add a drizzle of honey and dried fruit.
  • The dough can be refrigerated overnight for a slower rise and deeper flavor.
  • Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months and reheat before serving.

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