Name: Homemade French Bread
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups warm water, about 105°F; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 2 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar; 5 cups (650 g) all-purpose flour, or bread flour; 2 ½ teaspoons table salt or fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Melted salted butter (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

French bread is a staple in many households for its crispy, golden crust and soft, chewy inside. With this easy homemade French bread recipe, you can enjoy fresh, delicious bread without leaving your home. Made in just 90 minutes, this recipe is a simple and satisfying way to bring that bakery-fresh taste to your kitchen.

Homemade French Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to make French bread from scratch, this recipe is for you. In less than 90 minutes, you can enjoy fresh, golden-brown loaves with that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. The dough is easy to work with, and you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a stand mixer (or mixing bowl) and an oven. Plus, the results are impressive enough to serve at any dinner table or gathering. Whether you’re using it for sandwiches, dipping in soup, or simply enjoying a slice with butter, this French bread will become a staple in your home.

Ingredients

2 cups warm water, about 105°F
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
2 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
5 cups (650 g) all-purpose flour, or bread flour (add more as needed)
2 ½ teaspoons table salt or fine sea salt
1 teaspoon olive oil
Melted salted butter (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture begins to foam.
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir on medium-low speed, or stir by hand. Gradually knead in ½ cup of the remaining flour until the dough is smooth but not sticky. You may need to add more flour depending on the climate.
Rub the dough with olive oil, cover the bowl with a towel, and let the dough rest for 15 to 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it rise for up to 1 hour.
Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and divide it in half. Roll the first dough ball into a rectangle (about 15 inches). Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a cylinder.
Pinch the seams closed and turn the ends in to create a loaf shape. Place it onto a baking sheet. Repeat with the second dough ball.
Make three diagonal cuts across the top of each loaf. Cover the loaves lightly with a towel and let them rise for 30 to 60 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Bake the loaves for 17 to 23 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. When you knock on the bottom, it should sound hollow. If they’re browning too quickly, cover them lightly with foil and reduce the temperature to 375°F.
Brush the tops with melted butter if desired. Let the bread cool slightly, slice, and serve while warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 32 (2 loaves)
Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Crispy Crust: For a shinier, crispier crust, whisk 1 egg white with a teaspoon of water and brush it over the loaves before baking. You can also add a few ice cubes to the oven to trap steam and help crisp up the crust.
Herb French Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Garlic Butter: Brush the warm bread with garlic butter instead of plain melted butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This bread stores best in a brown paper bag on the counter for up to 3 days. If it starts to get stale, slice and toast for a crunchy treat.
Freezer: Allow the bread to cool completely, then place it in a zip-top bag (preferably before slicing) and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight on the counter and warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount and skip the step of activating the yeast in warm water.

2. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a little at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and no longer sticks to your fingers.

3. How can I get a crispy crust on my French bread?

For a crispier crust, you can brush the dough with an egg wash (whisked egg white and water) before baking. You can also place a pan of water in the oven to create steam during baking.

4. Can I make this bread by hand without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand. Just mix the ingredients in a bowl and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

5. How do I know when my bread is fully baked?

Tap the bottom of the loaf when it’s done baking. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. If it doesn’t, bake for a few more minutes.

6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Shape it into loaves, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

7. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can try making this recipe with a gluten-free all-purpose flour, but the texture and results may differ from the traditional French bread.

8. How should I store French bread for the best freshness?

Store French bread in a brown paper bag to keep it fresh for a couple of days. For longer storage, freeze the bread as described above.

9. Can I add other toppings to the bread before baking?

Yes, you can sprinkle seeds (like sesame or poppy seeds) or cheese on top of the loaves before baking for added flavor and texture.

10. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour will give your French bread a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works perfectly well for this recipe.

Conclusion

This homemade French bread recipe is an easy and quick way to bring the authentic taste of French bread into your kitchen. With minimal ingredients and just 90 minutes, you’ll have two beautiful, golden loaves to enjoy with your family. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as a snack, you can’t go wrong with this simple yet delicious recipe. Enjoy!