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Cool Before Slicing

Soft Fluffy French Bread Recipe: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

If you’re craving that perfect loaf of soft, fluffy French bread, the kind with a golden crust and pillowy inside, you’ve just found your new favorite recipe. Whether you're making sandwiches, garlic bread, or simply want to enjoy a warm slice with butter, this soft fluffy French bread recipe is easy enough for beginners and delivers bakery-quality results at home.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 6 to 6 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Optional: 1 egg white + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions
 

  • 1. Activate the Yeast
    In a large bowl, mix:
    2 ½ cups warm water
    2 tablespoons sugar
    2 ¼ teaspoons yeast
  • 2. Make the Dough
    Add:
    1 tablespoon salt
    2 tablespoons oil
    3 cups flour
  • 3. Knead the Dough
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes (or use a mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes) until elastic and slightly tacky.
  • 4. First Rise
    Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled.
  • 5. Shape the Loaves
    Punch down the dough. Divide into 2 equal portions. Shape each into a rectangle, then roll tightly into a log. Pinch seams closed and tuck ends under.
  • 6. Second Rise
    Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until noticeably puffed.
  • 7. Preheat Oven
    Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack for steam.
  • 8. Optional Egg Wash
    Whisk 1 egg white with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the tops of the loaves for a golden, glossy crust.
  • 9. Bake
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • 10. Cool and Enjoy
    Let the bread cool for 20 minutes on a wire rack before slicing for best texture.

Notes

🍞 Tips for Success:

  • Use fresh yeast—no foam means your yeast is dead.
  • Let your dough rise fully for soft, airy bread.
  • For an extra soft crust, brush with melted butter after baking.