Cooking Why doesn't my bread hold its shape?

[worm761]

I have no idea what I am doing wrong when making my French bread. Instead of rising and being nice and round, it stretches out sideways and is flat and fat. What could be causing this? I am not making it a machine. I do it by hand.

 

[dustpixie]

Well, i'm a bit (bunch!) late to see this, but if you're still wondering... what sort of pan are you using? i have a bagette pan that's half-tube shaped and made of mesh.

 

[queenofthehive]

It might be the type of flour you are using. Are you using bread flour? It has more gluten that regular flour. Search "America's test kitchen French bread". They might have a tried and true recipe to use that has good results.

 

[katiescat]

I'd say too much water in your mix, try using a bit less.

 

[ronandannette]

Is it rising properly? Depending where you live the altitude can play a big part in how the gasses released by the yeast expand. You may have to adjust the quantities.