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Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread

A freshly baked loaf of French bread resting on a cooling rack next to a cross-section showing the airy interior.
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Make soft, fluffy French bread with a crisp crust at home. This simple recipe is suitable for beginners and ready in under two hours.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115 degrees F)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the melted butter.
  3. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a long, even loaf (or two smaller baguettes) and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Cover the loaf loosely and let it rest for a second rise for 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) during this time.
  8. Brush the top of the loaf lightly with the beaten egg white. Use a sharp knife to make three diagonal slashes across the top of the bread.
  9. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Cool the bread on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For an extra crusty exterior, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while preheating to create steam.
  • If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in the oven while it is off, with the light on, to create a warm rising spot.
  • Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a slightly chewier texture.

Nutrition

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