Print

Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread

A loaf of homemade soft french bread, partially sliced to show the airy, open crumb structure.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make soft, fluffy French bread with a crisp crust at home. This simple recipe is suitable for beginners and ready quickly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the olive oil.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough. Shape it into a long, even loaf or two smaller baguettes. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Cover the loaf loosely and let it rest for a second rise for 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during this time.
  8. Brush the top of the loaf lightly with the beaten egg white. Make three diagonal slashes across the top of the bread using a sharp knife.
  9. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while preheating to create steam.
  • If your kitchen is cold, place the rising dough in the oven with just the light on.
  • Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/easy-homemade-french-bread-recipe/