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Soft Fluffy French Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home, and this Soft Fluffy French Bread recipe delivers just that. With a golden, crispy crust and a soft, airy interior, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply slathering with butter.
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Equipment

  • - 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
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

  • 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!