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Soft Fluffy French Bread

A simple and rewarding bread recipe that is soft and fluffy on the inside with a delicate crust, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Bread, Side, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Feel free to experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F) Ensure the water is warm to help activate yeast.
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar Helps to activate the yeast.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
  3. Once your yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the well of the flour and add the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf by rolling it tightly and tucking the ends.
  7. Place your shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen again, bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For maximum freshness, wrap in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze if longer storage is needed. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.