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Soft Fluffy French Bread

A delightful, airy loaf with a crispy crust and tender interior, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast Ensure it’s halal-certified
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1.5 cups warm water About 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well.
  2. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil.
  3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, stir until the dough comes together. It might be slightly sticky but that’s okay.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Shaping and Baking
  1. Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
  2. Place the shaped loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Once the second rise is complete, bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  5. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it fresh or with your favorite toppings!

Notes

To store your bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 2–3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing the loaf or slices in freeze-safe bags, where it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain texture.