Name: Homemade French Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 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 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar; 5 cups (650 g) all-purpose flour or bread flour (add more as needed); 2 1/2 teaspoons table salt or fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon olive oil; Melted salted butter for brushing

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Introduction

This homemade French bread recipe delivers a crusty exterior with a soft, airy interior that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite meals. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s a rewarding bake for any home cook.

The image shows a loaf of bread partially sliced on a white cloth with thin red stripes, placed on a white marbled surface. The loaf has a soft, light golden brown crust with a slightly glossy texture on top, while the inside is fluffy and pale beige. Four slices are cut from the loaf and laid flat, showing the soft and airy texture inside. The loaf itself is thick and round-topped, with smooth crust edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until it begins to foam.
Step 2: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups of flour and salt. Gradually stir in the yeast mixture on medium-low speed or by hand.
Step 3: Knead in 1/2 cup increments of the remaining flour until the dough is smooth but not sticky. You may need more or less than 5 cups depending on your climate.
Step 4: Rub the olive oil around the dough ball. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rest for 15 to 30 minutes. If time allows, let it rise for up to 1 hour.
Step 5: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and divide it in half. Set one half aside. Roll the other half into a rectangle about 15 inches long. Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a cylinder.
Step 6: Tuck the ends in and pinch the seams closed. Round the edges and place the loaf onto a baking sheet. Repeat with the second dough ball.
Step 7: 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, longer if possible for better flavor.
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Bake the loaves for 17 to 23 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 9: If the bread browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil and reduce the temperature to 375°F.
Step 10: Brush the tops with melted butter if desired. Slice and serve the bread warm.

Tips & Variations

Use bread flour for a chewier texture or all-purpose flour for a softer crumb.
Letting the dough rise longer improves flavor and texture; be patient if you can.
Brush loaves with water before baking for an extra crispy crust.
Add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder into the dough for a flavorful twist.

Storage

Store French bread in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in an airtight bag for up to one month. Reheat slices in a toaster or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

How to Serve

A single slice of white bread lies flat on a wooden board with a smooth, even layer of white spread covering its surface. Behind it, there is a small stack of four thick white bread slices showing soft, airy interiors and golden brown crusts around the edges. To the side, part of a white cloth with red stripes is visible, resting on the wooden board. The overall tone is warm with a natural texture and lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until it reaches a smooth, elastic consistency. It may take a bit longer but yields great results.

Why is my French bread dense instead of airy?

Dense bread can result from using too much flour, not kneading enough, or insufficient rising time. Be sure to measure flour carefully and allow the dough to rise fully for best texture.