Name: Soft Fluffy French Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (or active dry yeast); 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter

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I bake this Soft Fluffy French Bread to enjoy a tender, airy loaf with a light crust that’s perfect for sandwiches or dipping. It’s an easy version of classic French bread that comes out pillowy soft—ideal for everyday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this bread combines simplicity and satisfaction: just a few ingredients, a straightforward method, and the result is bakery-quality softness. The gentle crust and tender crumb make it versatile—whether I’m toasting it for breakfast or pairing it with a hearty stew.

Ingredients

(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
Warm water
Granulated sugar
Salt
Vegetable oil or melted butter

Directions

Activate yeast (if needed). If using active dry yeast, I dissolve it with a teaspoon of sugar in warm water and let it foam for about 5–10 minutes.
Mix the dough. I combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast (or the foamed mixture), warm water, and oil or butter in a bowl until a smooth, slightly tacky dough forms.
Knead. I knead by hand or mixer for 6–8 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
First rise. I shape the dough into a ball, place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled—about 1 hour.
Shape the loaves. I punch down the dough, divide it into two (or more) portions, roll each into a tight log, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise. I cover the formed loaves with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Score and bake. I preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C), score the tops with a sharp blade, and mist with water. Then I bake for 20–25 minutes until they’re golden and sound hollow when tapped.
Cool. I transfer them to a wire rack to cool somewhat before slicing—though I admit I sometimes sneak a warm slice!

Servings and timing

Yields: 2 loafs (approx. 12–16 slices)
Prep time: 15 minutes
First rise: ~1 hour
Second rise: 30–45 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Around 2⅕ hours

Variations

Herbed version: I mix dried oregano, basil, or rosemary into the dough for an aromatic touch.
Gluten-free alternative: I substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a flax or xanthan binder—results are slightly denser but still soft.
Garlic-cheese twist: I brush the loaves with garlic butter before and after baking, and sprinkle Parmesan for a savory treat.
Honey-sweetened: I swap half the sugar for honey for a subtly sweet flavor and softer crust.

Storage/reheating

I store the cooled loaves wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive softness after that, I lightly mist the crust and warm the loaf in a 300 °F oven for about 5–7 minutes. I also freeze extra loaves whole or in slices, wrapped in foil in a freezer bag—they stay delicious for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Yes—I proof it in warm water with sugar first, then add it to the flour. It works just as well, though the rise may take an extra 5–10 minutes.

How do I get those lovely French bread slashes?

A sharp razor or scoring blade creates clean, deep cuts. I score about ½-inch deep and do quick diagonal slashes right before baking.

Should I add steam in the oven?

Yes—I spray the oven walls with water just after sliding in the bread. It helps the crust stay light and thin.

Is this bread freezer-friendly?

Absolutely—I slice it, freeze on a tray, and then store in a bag. I pull slices as needed and reheat in a toaster or warm oven.

How can I tell when it’s done baking?

The loaves should be golden-brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temperature should read about 200 °F (93 °C) if you have a thermometer.

Conclusion

I adore this Soft Fluffy French Bread—it’s simple to bake, delightful to eat, and perfect for so many uses. Whether toasted for breakfast, used for sandwiches, or served alongside soups and salads, it brings homemade charm to any meal.