Foolproof French Bread Recipe: Perfect Every Time
Dream That Smelled Like Bread
The best dream I can remember was about baking bread, no joke. I was kneading dough by hand, the kitchen was quiet, and the whole thing felt grounding and calm. I woke up feeling lighter, like I’d already had a peaceful morning. That’s what I hope you get from this homemade French bread recipe, a moment that feels like a deep breath.
This Recipe Doesn’t Judge—It’s Very Forgiving
In that dream, I did it all by hand, but real life calls for shortcuts sometimes. Feel free to let your stand mixer do the heavy lifting. This is a very forgiving recipe, great for beginners or for those days when you just want something comforting without the fuss.
If you’re using instant yeast or rapid-rise yeast, go ahead and mix it right into the flour. If you’re working with active dry yeast, you’ll just need to proof it in warm water with a little sugar first. Either way, you’re on the right track.
Yeast Breakdown: What You Need to Know
When making French bread, yeast is a key ingredient, but the type of yeast you use can influence the process and results. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose and work with yeast:
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Instant Yeast (Rapid-Rise Yeast):
This is the easiest to use and the most forgiving. Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients without the need to proof it in warm water. It works quickly, meaning you can get your dough rising and baking in no time. -
Active Dry Yeast:
Active dry yeast needs to be proofed in warm water with a bit of sugar before using. It’s still widely available and works just as well as instant yeast, though the process is a bit longer. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy, then proceed with your recipe. -
Bread Machine Yeast:
This is a type of instant yeast (sometimes labeled as "rapid-rise yeast") designed for use in bread machines. Bread machine yeast doesn't require proofing—simply mix it with the dry ingredients, and it will activate during the kneading process. It works great for both bread machines and traditional baking. -
Fresh Yeast (Cake Yeast):
This isn’t as commonly used in home kitchens but can be found in some specialty stores. Fresh yeast requires refrigeration and has a shorter shelf life than dry yeasts. You’ll need to crumble it into warm water to activate it before using it in your recipe.
Yeast Substitution Tip:
If you’re using active dry yeast instead of instant yeast, you’ll need to proof it in water before using it. If substituting fresh yeast, use about 2½ times the amount called for in dry yeast.
That Fresh-Baked Bread Smell? Pure Happiness
The best part of baking bread, aside from that first warm slice, is the smell. There’s just nothing like it. It makes your home feel cozy and welcoming, even if it’s just you in there with your kitchen timer.
This recipe gives you a loaf with that perfect crusty outside and soft, fluffy inside. I use all-purpose flour because it’s what I usually have in the pantry, but if you’ve got bread flour, go for it. It’ll give your loaf a little more chew, but either way, it’s going to taste amazing.
Tips & Troubleshooting for Homemade French Bread
Baking French bread is simple, but here are some tips to help you perfect the loaf and avoid common pitfalls.
- • Don’t Rush the Rise: Letting your dough rise fully is key to getting that light, fluffy center. If your kitchen is a little chilly, just give it more time or place the bowl near a warm oven (but not in it).
- • Crust Too Soft? For that classic crispy French bread crust, mist the oven with water right after putting the loaf in. You can also place a shallow pan of water on the lower rack while it bakes—steam helps build that crust!
- • Dough Too Sticky? That's okay! French bread dough should be a little tacky. Add flour just a tablespoon at a time if it’s too hard to handle, but don’t overdo it—too much flour can make your loaf dense.
- • Want to Freeze It? This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in foil and place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw it at room temp and reheat in the oven to bring back the crust.
Homemade French Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant or rapid yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions
- Prepare Yeast Mixture: If using active dry yeast, dissolve the sugar in the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. If using instant or rapid yeast, skip this step and add it directly to the flour mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. If using instant or rapid yeast, add it directly to the flour mixture. Add the yeast mixture (if prepared) and the oil to the bowl. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf.
- Second Rise: Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes. If desired, make 3–4 diagonal slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife before baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a pan with ice water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam for a crusty top.
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Keep It Simple, Keep It Comforting
Don’t let bread baking intimidate you. This is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again, easy, relaxing, and always worth the little bit of time it takes. Whether you’re brand-new to bread making or just want a no-fuss favorite, this French bread from scratch is a keeper.
It’s perfect alongside soups and stews, or simply as a morning treat—warm from the oven, slathered with creamy butter and your favorite jam, paired with a cozy cup of coffee or tea. And if you’re looking for something extra special to spread on it, my homemade apple-pear butter is just the thing. You can find that recipe here—it’s simple and only needs simmering time to do its thing.
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Hey, if you tried this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know what you think! A quick rating helps others out too, and if you added your own twist, let’s talk about it!