Bread Machine French Bread: Easy + Perfect for Beginners

This bread machine French bread is perfect for getting delicious French-style bread quickly and easily. The machine does all the work, and the ingredients are simple. However, you do need to use high-quality bread flour for the best texture and rise.

front close up of French bread loaf with two slices cut out.

Bread Machine French Bread

This French bread recipe is baked entirely in the bread machine, making it incredibly easy while delivering a crusty, golden loaf. Slash the top of the loaf before the baking cycle begins for a classic French bread appearance. Makes a 1 pound loaf.

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 5

Serving Size slices

Equipment

Bread machine

Ingredients

¾ cup warm water
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast

Instructions

Add ingredients to the bread machine. Pour the warm water and salt into the bread pan first. Add the bread flour and sugar. Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast on top.
Select the French bread or basic white bread cycle. Choose a setting that allows for a crusty loaf (like French bread or basic cycle), and set the crust to medium or dark for the best texture.
Slash the dough (optional). If your machine allows, pause just before the baking cycle begins (usually after the final rise) to sprinkle the dough with flour and slash the top of the dough with a sharp knife or bread lame.
Bake. Let the bread machine complete the baking process.
Cool and serve. Once baking is complete, carefully remove the loaf from the bread machine and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Slashing the top is optional and can be done if your machine allows you to pause before the baking cycle (or you can keep an eye on it!). If not, your bread will still have a delicious crust without slashing. It’s just for looks!
I like to double this recipe and bake it as a 2lb loaf, but 1lb is also fine.

I love this recipe because it’s so easy! Just toss the ingredients in the bread machine and let it do its thing. Perfect for busy days when I still want fresh bread.

overhead of french bread loaf with X slash on it and two slices on the side on wooden cutting board.

It’s so easy, even I can’t mess it up! Plus, that crispy crust is absolute perfection. We love it with a big pot of ham and bean soup on chilly evenings.

Key Takeaways

Water Temperature is Key: Make sure your water is lukewarm, not hot! Too-hot water can kill the yeast and prevent your bread from rising. Aim for around 105-115°F. You can use a thermometer to be sure or test it with your finger—it should feel pleasantly warm, not hot.
Don’t Overcrowd: Resist the urge to add extra ingredients. Bread machines are designed to work with specific proportions, and adding too much can hinder the rising process.
Check Your Yeast: Yeast is a living organism, so make sure yours is fresh! If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, it might be time to replace it. To test if your yeast is active, combine it with a bit of warm water and sugar. If it foams up after a few minutes, you’re good to go.
Give it Space: Make sure your bread machine is in a draft-free location while it’s working. Cold air can affect the rise.
Adjust for Altitude: Consult this article to adjust the recipe if you live above sea level.

Key Ingredients and Tools

Here are a few things you’ll need to make this bread machine French bread.

Bread Flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which gives the bread structure and helps it rise nicely. You can usually find it near the other flours in your grocery store.
Active Dry Yeast. Yeast is what makes the bread rise! Store your yeast in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
Bread Machine. Obviously, you’ll need a bread machine for this recipe! You can find them at most department stores or online if you don’t have one. You can make more than bread loaves in them, too! You can use your bread machine to make my bread machine sandwich rolls.

That’s it! Just a few simple ingredients for a delicious loaf of homemade bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with creamy sausage and tortellini soup and a salad.

Troubleshooting and Help

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

You can, but your bread might not rise as high or have the same chewy texture. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which gives the bread structure. If you only have all-purpose flour on hand, use it! The bread will still be tasty.

My bread machine doesn’t have a French bread setting. What should I do?

No problem! Just use the basic or white bread setting. You might need to adjust the crust setting to medium or dark to get a nice, crusty loaf.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough, like herbs or cheese?

While it’s tempting to get creative, I’d recommend sticking to the recipe as written, especially if you’re new to bread making. Adding extra ingredients can throw off the balance and affect how the bread rises.

I’m happy to answer any further questions you may have about this recipe. Feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll do my best to help!

Storing Leftovers

This bread is best enjoyed fresh!

Room Temperature:

Once it has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or bag at room temperature. It will stay good for about 3-4 days.

Freezing:

You can also freeze this bread for longer storage

To freeze: Slice the bread or leave it whole (your choice!). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
To thaw: Thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm individual slices in the toaster or oven.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for bread machine French bread that anyone can make, even if you’re a complete beginner. With just a few ingredients and your trusty bread machine, you can enjoy fresh, homemade bread anytime.

Bread Machine French Bread: Easy + Perfect for Beginners