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
Instructions
- If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water with sugar and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and oil or butter, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough and divide into two equal portions. Shape into logs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Score tops with a sharp blade and mist with water.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- Add dried herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
- Use garlic butter and Parmesan for a savory twist.
- Swap sugar for honey for a soft, sweet loaf.
- Freeze whole or sliced loaves for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
