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Easy Homemade Soft and Crusty French Bread (Ready in Under 2 Hours)

Collage showing a golden-brown, scored loaf of amazing french bread cooling, and a close-up of its airy interior crumb.
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Make soft, fluffy French bread at home with a crispy exterior. This simple recipe uses basic ingredients and guides you through the steps for beginner bakers, delivering bakery-style loaves perfect for dinner or sandwiches in under two hours.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Gently punch down the dough. Divide it in half. Shape each half into a long, even loaf shape, about 12 to 14 inches long.
  6. Place the shaped loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let them rest for a second rise for 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack for steam.
  8. Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with the beaten egg white. Use a sharp knife to make three diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf.
  9. Carefully pour about 1/2 cup of hot water into the shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam. Quickly close the oven door.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Transfer the French bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, you can lightly spritz the loaves with water a few times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
  • If you want a softer crust, skip the egg white wash and bake without adding steam to the oven.
  • This bread is excellent served warm with butter or used for making sandwiches.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/easy-homemade-french-bread-recipe/