Soft Fluffy French Bread:
A simple homemade French bread with a tender, pillowy crumb and a soft crust. This bread is perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying fresh with butter. A beginner-friendly recipe using yeast for a light, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1¼ cups warm water 105°F to 110°F
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour plus more if needed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water; let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and oil; stir until dough forms. Knead dough on floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and shape into a long loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffed but not fully doubled.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Make several diagonal slashes across the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow when tapped. Optionally, brush with melted butter after baking for a softer crust.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy fresh or toasted.
Notes
- Use warm (not hot) water to activate yeast properly.
- For softer crust, cover bread with foil after 20 minutes baking or brush with butter.
- Flour amounts vary by humidity; add gradually to maintain a slightly sticky dough.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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