Fougasse French Flatbread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Fougasse French Flatbread.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to a toasty 450°F (230°C).

2. Step 2

   To keep your dough from sticking, lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil.

3. Step 3

   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix together all-purpose flour, spelt flour, yeast, and kosher salt.

4. Step 4

   Gradually pour in the water, kneading the mixture until it transforms into a smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky dough—this should take about five minutes.

5. Step 5

   Once ready, transfer the dough to your oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise at room temperature for 30 minutes.

6. Step 6

   After the first rise, uncover your dough and wet one hand.

7. Step 7

   Gently grab one side of the dough, pulling it up and folding it towards the center.

8. Step 8

   Repeat this folding technique six to seven times, turning the bowl slightly with each fold.

9. Step 9

   Cover the bowl again and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes.

10. Step 10

    You’ll want to repeat this folding process two more times, allowing the dough to rest for a total of two hours.

11. Step 11

    After the final folding, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours to let those flavors develop beautifully.

12. Step 12

    When you’re ready to bake, line a sheet pan with a silicone liner and sprinkle a bit of flour on it.

13. Step 13

    Gently transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and pat it into an oval shape, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking.

14. Step 14

    Cut the oval in half lengthwise to create two equal portions.

15. Step 15

    To shape your fougasse, take one piece of dough and fold one end over the center third, then fold the other end over the top, forming a lovely triangle.

16. Step 16

    Place this shaped dough onto your prepared pan and repeat with the second piece.

17. Step 17

    Cover both triangles with a piece of oiled plastic wrap and let them sit until they warm up, which should take about 30 minutes to an hour.

18. Step 18

    While they’re resting, line two baking sheets with parchment paper and generously sprinkle cornmeal on top.

19. Step 19

    Once the dough has warmed, remove the plastic wrap.

20. Step 20

    Now, transfer one piece of dough to a lightly floured surface.

21. Step 21

    Sprinkle some flour over the top and use a rolling pin and your hands to stretch the triangle until it’s about ½ to ¾ inch thick.

22. Step 22

    Sprinkle fresh rosemary over the top and gently press it into the dough.

23. Step 23

    Move this piece to one of the parchment-lined baking sheets.

24. Step 24

    Using a pizza wheel, cut through the dough vertically down the center of the triangle, being careful not to cut through the top and bottom edges.

25. Step 25

    Gently pull the dough apart to create an open cut.

26. Step 26

    Make two additional cuts at the top, one on each side, and pull the dough gently to spread it out.

27. Step 27

    Continue making cuts down the sides and at the bottom to give it a beautiful leaf-like appearance.

28. Step 28

    Cover it with oiled plastic wrap and let it proof for 30 to 60 minutes.

29. Step 29

    Repeat the shaping and proofing process with the remaining piece of dough.

30. Step 30

    Once both pieces have proofed, remove the plastic wrap from one fougasse.

31. Step 31

    Brush olive oil generously over the entire surface and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

32. Step 32

    Bake in the center of your preheated oven until they are beautifully browned, which should take about 20 minutes.

33. Step 33

    Once baked, transfer them to a rack to cool.

34. Step 34

    Repeat the baking process with the second fougasse.

35. Step 35

    Finally, serve your warm, homemade fougasse and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of your creation.

36. Step 36

    It’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all on your own!.