Description
This soft and fluffy French bread has a golden, crisp crust and an airy, tender interior. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soup, or enjoying warm with butter.
Ingredients
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
6 cups all-purpose flour (approximately; add more if needed)
1 egg white + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in salt, oil, and 3 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, about 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into two equal parts. Roll each into a rectangle, then roll up tightly like a jelly roll and pinch the seams to seal.
- Place loaves seam side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Slash the tops diagonally with a sharp knife and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaves with egg wash just before baking.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool briefly before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, mix in garlic powder, dried herbs, or shredded cheese.
Shape into rolls or mini baguettes for smaller portions—adjust baking time accordingly.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat slices in the toaster or whole loaves in foil at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
If the dough is too sticky or too dry, adjust flour amounts gradually depending on humidity and altitude.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
