Soft Fluffy French Bread Recipe

With a golden, crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply slathering with butter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Impress your family and friends with your baking skills and savor the satisfaction of making bread from scratch!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or bread lame (for scoring)
• Kitchen towel
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Ingredients Overview

• Flour: Bread flour or all-purpose flour for the base.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast to help the dough rise.
• Water: Lukewarm water to activate the yeast.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor and strengthens the dough.
• Sugar: A touch of sugar to feed the yeast.

Ingredients (Makes 2 loaves)

For the Dough

• 4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 ½ cups lukewarm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For the Topping

• 1 egg white (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface or with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Loaves

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle, then fold the long sides toward the center and seal the seam. Roll and stretch the dough into a 12-14 inch loaf shape. Place the loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the shaped loaves with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack of the oven. Mix the egg white and water for the egg wash.

Step 7: Score and Bake

Using a sharp knife or bread lame, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each loaf. Brush the loaves with the egg wash. Pour 1 cup of hot water into the shallow pan in the oven to create steam. Bake the loaves for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Let the loaves cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time

20 minutes

Rise Time

1.5-2 hours

Cook Time

20-25 minutes

Total Time

2.5-3 hours

Nutrition (per serving, ~10 slices per loaf)

• Calories: ~120
• Fat: ~0.5g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Protein: ~4g

Expert Tips

• Steam for Crust: The steam from the hot water helps create a crispy crust.
• Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and passes the “windowpane test” (stretch a small piece of dough; it should be thin enough to see light through without tearing).
• Storage: Store bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the flour.

What if I don’t have bread flour?
All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour gives a chewier texture.

Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Storing & Reheating

• Storing: Keep bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Substitutions & Variations

• Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the dough.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.