Description
Learn how to make soft and fluffy French bread at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for sandwiches, soups, or simply enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Optional for Finishing:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Stir in vegetable oil and salt. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rise and Shape: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. Punch down dough and shape into a long loaf. Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Final Rise and Bake: Cover the loaf and let it rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Make diagonal slashes on the loaf, then bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Optionally, brush with melted butter for a softer crust. Cool before slicing.
Notes
- For a crustier loaf, add a pan of hot water to the oven while baking.
- This bread is versatile and great for sandwiches, garlic bread, or dipping in soups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
