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Easy Homemade French Bread with Soft Fluffy Interior

Close-up of the open crumb structure inside a freshly baked loaf of french bread with a golden crust.
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Learn how to bake bakery-style French bread at home. This simple recipe delivers a soft, fluffy crumb and a satisfyingly crusty exterior, perfect for dinner or sandwiches.

Ingredients

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  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • 1 egg white, beaten with 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add 3 1/2 cups of the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes, adding the remaining flour gradually until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
  4. First rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape the loaves: Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, shape each piece into a long, even loaf, about 12 to 14 inches long.
  6. Second rise: Place the shaped loaves on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Cover loosely and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during the last 15 minutes of this rise.
  7. Prepare for baking: Score the top of each loaf three or four times diagonally with a sharp knife or razor blade. Brush the tops lightly with the egg white wash.
  8. Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Cool: Transfer the finished French bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your homemade bread!

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while preheating to create steam.
  • If you want a quicker rise, place the dough in an oven that is turned off but has the light on.
  • This tender crumb bread is excellent served warm with butter or used for sandwiches.

Nutrition

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