Description
This Soft Fluffy French Bread recipe yields a classic, homemade loaf with a tender crumb and a golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches or serving alongside meals, this bread is made from simple ingredients and requires basic bread-making techniques, including yeast activation, kneading, and baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5–3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the top)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2.5 cups of flour and salt. Stir to combine.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the flour mixture. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, adding more flour if necessary. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
- 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.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Egg Wash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with beaten egg for a glossy crust.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast to avoid killing it.
- You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Use a damp cloth to cover the dough to maintain humidity during rising.
- To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the bread; it should sound hollow.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
