How to Make the Best Soft Fluffy French Bread Recipe

There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share with you my secret recipe for the best soft, fluffy French bread you’ll ever taste. Perfect for quick family dinners or as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews, this recipe is a game-changer. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re new to bread baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture with a golden crust
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
• Ready in just a few hours
• Goes perfectly with creamy garlic pasta or as a side for your favorite meals

Ingredients

To make this soft, fluffy French bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2.5-3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pink salt
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 egg (beaten for the top of the bread)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious soft fluffy French bread:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. Mix the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and shape it into a long, thin loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let it Rise Again: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your French bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
• Don’t overmix the dough; it should still be slightly sticky when you finish kneading.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
• For an extra crispy crust, bake the bread for an additional 5-10 minutes.

How to Serve

This soft fluffy French bread is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Sliced and served with butter or jam
• Dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar
• As a side to your favorite soups or stews
• Toasted and topped with cheese or herbs

Make Ahead and Storage

You can make this bread ahead of time and store it for later use:

• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh.

And there you have it! A simple yet delicious recipe for soft, fluffy French bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty soup or as part of a quick family dinner, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes like How to Make the Best Homemade Big Mac Wraps and How to Make the Best Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole for more tasty meal ideas. Happy baking!