French Bread for the Bread Machine – Classic & Easy Recipe
Make classic French bread in your bread machine with a light crumb and crisp crust. Simple ingredients, authentic flavor, reliable rise.
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French Bread Bread Machine
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Introduction
French Bread for the Bread Machine is a classic, no-frills loaf with a light, airy crumb and clean wheat flavor.
Made with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers dependable rise and excellent structure while keeping the authentic character of traditional French bread.
It’s perfect for sandwiches, garlic bread, or serving alongside soups and salads.
What Makes This French Bread Authentic?
Simple ingredient list (no milk or eggs)
Lean dough with clean wheat flavor
Light interior crumb
No added fats beyond a small amount (optional)
Why You’ll Love This French Bread Machine Recipe
Classic bakery-style flavor
Soft interior with crisp crust
Perfect for sandwiches and garlic bread
Versatile base for many variations
Ingredients for French Bread
You’ll Need (1½-lb Loaf)
1¼ cups warm water (105–110°F)
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for slightly softer crumb)
1½ tsp salt
3½ cups bread flour
2¼ tsp bread machine yeast
Note: Leaving out oil creates a more traditional, crusty loaf.
How to Make French Bread in a Bread Machine
Step-by-Step Instructions
Add water, oil (if using), and salt to the bread pan.
Add bread flour, leveling the surface.
Make a small well in the flour and add yeast.
Insert the pan into the bread machine.
Settings:
Cycle: French / Basic Bread
Crust: Medium or Dark
Loaf Size: 1½ lb
Pro Tips for the Best French Bread
Use bread flour for proper gluten development.
Dough should be smooth and elastic, not sticky.
For crispier crust, remove loaf immediately after baking.
Cool completely before slicing for best texture.
Variations Using the Same Dough
Garlic French Bread: Brush with garlic butter after baking
Herb French Bread: Add 1 tbsp dried herbs after first knead
Sesame French Bread: Sprinkle sesame seeds on crust
French Rolls: Use dough cycle and shape into rolls
What to Serve with French Bread
Soups and stews
Pasta dishes
Garlic butter or olive oil dip
Sandwiches and panini
Storage & Freezing
Room temperature: 2–3 days
Freeze (sliced): up to 2 months
Re-crisp in oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my French bread not crusty?
Bread machines trap steam; for crisp crust, use a darker crust setting or finish in the oven.
Can I make this loaf without oil?
Yes—omit oil for a more traditional texture.
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives better chew and structure.
Final Thoughts
French Bread for the Bread Machine proves that simple ingredients can create exceptional bread. With a light crumb, clean flavor, and versatile uses, this loaf is a reliable staple that belongs in every bread machine baker’s rotation.
* 9 oz of water
* 2 teaspoons margarine or butter, softened
* 3.25 cups bread machine flour
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1.5 teaspoon salt
* 2.75 teaspoons regular active dry yeast OR
* 2.75 teaspoons bread machine or quick-acting active dry yeast
MACHINE BREAD INSTRUCTIONS
Bake on French Bread Cycle.
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