Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, using only a few basic ingredients like flour, water, olive oil, and yeast. The result is a tender, fluffy bread with a slightly sweet flavor, making it the perfect addition to soups, salads, or a cheese platter. Plus, it’s healthier than store-bought bread and has a versatile flavor that complements many dishes.
Ingredients
- 2.5-3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pink salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon sugar with warm water. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 10 minutes, until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2.5 cups flour, the remaining sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Add the activated yeast and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place 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). Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Let bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 hours
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Herb-Infused Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
- Garlic Bread: Mix in minced garlic and top with butter before baking for a savory twist.
- Sweet Loaf: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover bread at room temperature for up to two days, wrapped in a kitchen towel or bread box. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a zip-lock bag for up to three months. To reheat, toast slices directly from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature.
FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is active?
If the yeast mixture becomes frothy after 10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.
Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread machine for the kneading and rising steps, then bake the dough in the oven.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser, and you might need to adjust the water.
How can I make my bread extra crispy?
Bake the bread on a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, vegetable or canola oil works as a substitute for olive oil.
Why is my bread not rising?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is between 100-110°F to activate it properly.
Can I add cheese to the dough?
Yes, adding shredded cheese to the dough before the first rise gives the bread a cheesy flavor.
Can I make this recipe without an egg wash?
Yes, you can skip the egg wash for a more rustic look or substitute with a milk wash for a softer crust.
How can I prevent my bread from being too dense?
Make sure to knead the dough properly to develop gluten, and allow both rises to complete fully.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and follow the same instructions.
Conclusion
This Soft Fluffy French Bread recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, with a light texture that complements a wide variety of dishes. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy freshly baked bread straight from your own kitchen.
Soft Fluffy French Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes.
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Soft Fluffy French Bread recipe creates a tender, airy loaf with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or spreading with sweet jam, this easy-to-make bread is healthier than store-bought options and delivers that fresh, homemade touch.
Ingredients
- 2.5–3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pink salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon sugar with warm water. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2.5 cups flour, the remaining sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Add the activated yeast and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Egg Wash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough.
- If you’d prefer a savory twist, add minced garlic and top with butter before baking for garlic bread.
- You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser.
