This easy French bread recipe creates a soft, fluffy interior with a beautifully golden crust — all with simple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for beginners and works wonderfully for sandwiches, garlic bread, or serving warm with butter alongside dinner.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 2 loaves
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or dough hook
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or bread lame
- Clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 5–6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Ingredient Notes
- Warm Water: Should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast both work well.
- Flour: Add gradually until the dough is soft but not sticky.
- Egg Wash: Gives the bread a shiny golden crust.
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add salt, oil, and 3 cups flour. Mix well. Gradually add remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Loaves
Punch down dough and divide into 2 portions. Shape into long loaves and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover loosely and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slash the tops of the loaves with a sharp knife.
Brush with egg wash if desired.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 22–25 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Tips
- Add flour slowly to avoid dense bread.
- For a crispier crust, place a small pan of hot water in the oven while baking.
- Let bread cool before slicing for the best texture.
- Store in an airtight bag to keep it soft.
Variations
Garlic French Bread
Brush baked bread with garlic butter and parsley.
Herb Bread
Add Italian seasoning or rosemary to the dough.
Cheesy French Bread
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
Whole Wheat Version
Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Sweet French Bread
Add an extra tablespoon of sugar and a touch of cinnamon for a sweeter loaf.