This homemade French bread is soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and perfect for sandwiches, soups, or serving warm with butter. With simple pantry ingredients and only about 90 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike. The dough comes together easily and creates two beautiful loaves with a bakery-style texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in about 90 minutes from start to finish
Uses simple everyday ingredients
Makes two large loaves
Soft, fluffy texture with a golden crust
Great for sandwiches, garlic bread, or dipping into soup
Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat
Beginner-friendly recipe with simple steps
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
2 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon olive oil
Optional for brushing:
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon milk
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour one cup at a time until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour as needed.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it evenly into two portions. Shape each portion into a long loaf.
Place the loaves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Use a sharp knife to make 3 diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf.
Cover loosely and let the loaves rise again for 15 to 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the tops lightly with milk or melted butter if desired for a golden finish.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 slices total
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Variations
Add minced garlic and herbs such as parsley or oregano to the dough for extra flavor.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking.
Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Add shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a cheesy version.
Shape the dough into smaller rolls instead of full loaves for dinner rolls.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bread in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the crust from becoming too soft, avoid storing it while still warm.
For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
To reheat, place slices in a toaster or warm the loaf in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works well in this recipe. You can mix it directly with the flour without proofing it first.
Why is my bread dense?
Dense bread is usually caused by adding too much flour or not allowing enough rise time.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I freeze the baked bread?
Yes, this bread freezes very well. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What type of flour works best?
All-purpose flour gives a soft texture, but bread flour can also be used for a slightly chewier loaf.
Can I make this recipe without olive oil?
Yes, but the olive oil helps create a softer texture and better flavor.
Why did my dough not rise?
Your yeast may have expired or the water may have been too hot or too cold.
Can I add toppings to the bread?
Absolutely. Seeds, herbs, and grated cheese all work well as toppings.
Is this bread good for sandwiches?
Yes, the soft texture and sturdy crust make it excellent for sandwiches.
Conclusion
This homemade French bread recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh bakery-style bread right from your own kitchen. With its soft center, golden crust, and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for family dinners, sandwiches, or enjoying warm with butter. Once you try this easy recipe, it may quickly become one of your favorite homemade breads.
