Introduction
Who doesn’t love the smell of warm, fresh bread? Especially when it’s soft, fluffy, and homemade! French bread is a favorite in many homes because it’s light on the inside with a golden crust on the outside. And guess what? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make it. You just need a few simple ingredients, a little time, and a bit of love.
This recipe for soft fluffy French bread is easy to follow—even if you’ve never baked bread before. So, grab your apron and get ready to bake something truly delicious!
Ingredients – French Bread
You only need basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons of salt
- 1 tablespoon of instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups of warm water (not hot – just warm to the touch)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter (optional – for brushing on top)
Step by Step Process – French Bread
Let’s break it down step-by-step so it’s super easy to follow.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- If you’re using active dry yeast (not instant), mix it with warm water and sugar first. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes bubbly.
- If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix it directly with the flour.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Then slowly add the warm water and olive oil.
- Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix it all until it forms a soft, sticky dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Sprinkle some flour on your countertop.
- Place the dough on it and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and stretchy.
- If the dough sticks too much, add a little more flour (just a tablespoon at a time).
Step 4: First Rise
- Put the dough in a clean, oiled bowl.
- Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
- Punch the dough down gently to remove air bubbles.
- Then shape it into a long loaf, like a baguette, or divide it into two smaller loaves.
- Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Second Rise
Let the shaped dough rest again for about 30–40 minutes until it puffs up.
Step 7: Score and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Use a sharp knife to make 3–4 shallow cuts across the top of the loaf.
- This helps the bread rise properly while baking.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
Step 8: Brush with Butter (Optional)
As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush the top with melted butter to give it a soft, shiny crust.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can! But keep in mind that whole wheat flour makes the bread a bit denser and not as fluffy. You can mix half all-purpose and half whole wheat for a balance.
Q2: How do I know if my yeast is working?
If your yeast becomes bubbly and foamy after sitting in warm water and sugar, it’s good to go. If nothing happens after 10 minutes, your yeast might be expired.
Q3: Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. It stays good for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
Q4: Why did my bread come out dense?
This usually happens if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or if the yeast didn’t rise properly. Make sure the dough gets enough time to rest and puff up before baking.
Q5: Can I add toppings like sesame seeds or herbs?
Yes! Before baking, brush the loaf with water or egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds, herbs, or even cheese on top for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Soft fluffy French bread is one of those magical things you can make at home with just a few pantry staples. It’s great for sandwiches, soups, or just eating with a bit of butter. And the best part? You made it yourself!
Whether you’re baking for your family, friends, or just for fun, this bread recipe is simple enough for beginners and tasty enough to impress anyone. So the next time you’re craving something fresh and homemade, skip the store and bake your own loaf of warm, fluffy French bread. Happy baking!
