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Perfect Homemade French Bread Recipe (Ready in 90 Minutes!)

This Perfect Homemade French Bread recipe delivers the authentic flavor, aroma, and texture of artisan bakery loaves — crisp on the outside, soft and airy on the inside. Made in just 90 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, it’s your foolproof guide to mastering classic French bread at home.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 3 loaves
Course: Bread
Cuisine: French
Calories: 319
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water 110°F
  • 2 cups hot water
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg for brushing
Smart Substitutions:
  • Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for Mediterranean flavor.
  • Replace 1 cup all-purpose flour with whole wheat for extra fiber.
  • Swap sugar for honey to deepen sweetness.
  • Try bread flour for chewier texture.

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water (110°F). Let stand 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Create the Base Mixture: In a large bowl, combine hot water, sugar, salt, oil, and 3 cups flour. Mix until smooth.
  3. Incorporate the Yeast: Add the yeast mixture and stir to blend completely.
  4. Build the Dough: Add remaining flour, one cup at a time, until dough pulls from sides of bowl. Let rest 10 minutes.
  5. Shape Loaves: Divide dough into three portions. Roll each into a 9×12-inch rectangle and then into a loaf shape, sealing edges.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Place loaves seam-side down on greased baking sheets. Score diagonally 3–4 times and brush with beaten egg.
  7. Final Rise: Let loaves rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake: Bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Notes

Use warm water between 100–110°F to activate yeast without killing it. Add flour gradually to prevent dense dough. For extra crispy crust, place a pan of hot water on the bottom oven rack during baking to create steam.