Description
Delight in the homemade charm of soft, fluffy French bread with a tender crumb and golden crust—perfect for sandwiches, soups, or as a standalone treat. Discover the joy of baking this versatile and satisfying bread with ease.
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: 2 tsp dried herbs (e.g., rosemary, oregano), 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Mix warm water and sugar; sprinkle yeast. Let it sit 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Form Dough: Add yeast mixture and olive oil to dry ingredients. Stir to form a shaggy dough.
- Knead: Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Shape: Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place on a parchment-lined sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Prepare Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Beat egg with water for an egg wash.
- Bake: Brush loaf with egg wash, make slashes on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
- Cool: Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for a denser loaf.
- Add seeds, nuts, or herbs during kneading for extra flavor.
- Store at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
