If you’ve ever tasted a loaf of fresh, warm, and crunchy French bread, you know that nothing beats it. The golden crust, the soft yet chewy interior, and the delightful aroma—there’s simply no comparison. Making French bread at home might seem intimidating, but it’s actually much easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll be able to create the perfect loaf of classic French bread every time. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced home chef, this recipe will guide you through the process.

Ingredients for Classic French Bread
Before we start, make sure you have all the following ingredients on hand. This recipe makes 1 large loaf of French bread.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a slightly softer crust)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Classic French Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
To begin, combine the warm water with the sugar and yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will give the yeast time to activate and bubble up, showing that it’s ready to work its magic in the dough.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
While the yeast is activating, combine the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Give it a quick stir to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once the yeast has bubbled and is fully activated, pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour. If you’re using olive oil, add it here. Stir everything together until a rough dough begins to form. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix.
4. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough for 8-10 minutes, using your palms and fingers to fold and press the dough. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and a little bit sticky. If it’s too sticky, you can add a small amount of flour, but be careful not to add too much. The goal is to have a soft and slightly tacky dough.
5. Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for creating that airy, light texture that’s characteristic of French bread.
6. Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a long, rectangular loaf. Fold the edges in slightly and roll it up, pinching the seams together to form a classic French bread shape.
7. Second Rise
Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly floured baking stone. Cover it loosely with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, allowing it to puff up once again.
8. Score the Loaf
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Just before baking, use a sharp knife or razor blade to score the top of the loaf with a few shallow slashes. This allows the bread to expand as it bakes and gives it that signature French bread appearance.
9. Bake the French Bread
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you want an extra-crispy crust, you can mist the oven with water a couple of times during the first 10 minutes of baking.
10. Cool and Serve
Once the French bread is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the bread finish setting and ensures a soft crumb inside.
Why You’ll Love This Classic French Bread Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This French bread recipe uses just basic pantry staples. No need for fancy ingredients or special equipment.
- Quick to Make: While there are a few rising times, the recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for a weekend bake.
- Customizable: You can add your own twists to this bread, such as incorporating herbs like rosemary or garlic for added flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect French Bread
- Use Warm Water: Make sure the water isn’t too hot—around 110°F (43°C)—because it can kill the yeast if it’s too hot.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough properly is essential for developing gluten, which gives the bread its chewy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Second Rise: The second rise gives the dough time to develop flavor and texture, so don’t rush it.
- Use a Baking Stone: If possible, bake your French bread on a preheated baking stone. It helps distribute the heat more evenly, leading to a crispier crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Water for Yeast: Always use warm water to activate the yeast.
- Not Scoring the Loaf: Scoring helps the bread expand and creates the signature French loaf appearance.
- Overbaking or Underbaking: Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking. A golden-brown crust with a hollow sound when tapped is a sign of perfect French bread.
FAQs
1. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to knead the dough, but for shaping and baking, follow the rest of the steps as directed.
2. How do I store French bread?
Store French bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread.
3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking the next day.
4. Can I add herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic for added flavor in your French bread.
Conclusion
Making classic French bread at home is a satisfying and rewarding experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a fresh, delicious loaf with the perfect balance of crunchy crust and soft, airy interior. Whether you enjoy it with butter, cheese, or a delicious soup, this homemade bread will elevate any meal. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the art of making fresh French bread in your own kitchen!