15 Classic French Bread Recipes Every Baker Should Try

From simple baguettes to stuffed and flavored variations, French bread adds charm and flavor to any meal.

Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dinner, or special occasions, there’s a French bread recipe to suit every palate.

Making bread at home can be deeply satisfying and allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality.

These 15 French bread recipes include classic baguettes, artisan loaves, stuffed breads, and creative variations with herbs, cheese, and more.

They’re perfect for sharing with family, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying warm from the oven.

Baking French bread can be an art, but with these recipes, it becomes approachable and rewarding.

From beginner-friendly loaves to more advanced artisan techniques, there’s a recipe here for every skill level.

15 Classic French Bread Recipes Every Baker Should Try

French bread is more than just a side; it’s a centerpiece that elevates meals with its texture and flavor.

These 15 French bread recipes show the versatility of this beloved bread, from simple baguettes to stuffed, flavored loaves.

Baking at home allows you to enjoy fresh, warm bread tailored to your taste.

Whether you’re serving it with soup, salad, or as a snack, these recipes guarantee delicious results.

French bread adds elegance, comfort, and tradition to any table, making it a must-bake for bread lovers.

Classic French Baguette

This classic French baguette is golden on the outside and soft, airy, and chewy on the inside.

It features a crisp crust, tender crumb, and the subtle flavor that makes French bread so beloved.

Perfect for sandwiches, accompanying soups, or enjoying with butter, this baguette is an essential recipe for any bread lover.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

• In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Mix flour and salt in a large bowl, then gradually add yeast mixture.
• Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Punch down the dough and divide into two portions, shaping each into a long baguette.
• Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise 30–45 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a shallow pan of water in the oven for steam.
• Make diagonal slashes on each loaf and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

This classic French baguette is light, airy, and full of flavor.

It’s perfect for homemade sandwiches, soups, or enjoying plain with butter.

Every bite delivers a crisp crust with a soft, tender interior.

Cheesy Herb French Bread

Cheesy herb French bread combines the richness of melted cheese with the aromatic flavor of fresh herbs.

It has a crisp exterior, soft interior, and the perfect blend of Parmesan, thyme, and rosemary.

This flavorful loaf is ideal for dipping, snacking, or serving alongside holiday meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar and let foam for 5–10 minutes.
• In a bowl, combine flour, salt, thyme, and rosemary.
• Mix in yeast mixture and knead for 8 minutes until smooth.
• Fold in Parmesan cheese and let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 1–2 hours.
• Shape the dough into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Make diagonal slashes on the top of the loaf.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Cheesy herb French bread is savory, aromatic, and golden brown.

It’s a perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or a holiday feast.

The combination of herbs and cheese elevates the flavor and aroma beautifully.

Garlic Butter French Bread

Garlic butter French bread is warm, golden, and infused with rich, buttery garlic flavor.

It has a soft interior with a slightly crisp crust, making it irresistible as a side or appetizer.

This bread is perfect for garlic lovers and pairs wonderfully with pasta, soups, or holiday spreads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then gradually add yeast mixture, kneading 8–10 minutes.
• Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–2 hours.
• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Roll dough into a long loaf and place on a baking sheet.
• Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
• Brush half of the garlic butter over the loaf before baking.
• Bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
• Brush remaining garlic butter over the loaf immediately after baking.

Garlic butter French bread is aromatic, rich, and soft inside.

It’s perfect for enjoying alongside pasta, soups, or as an appetizer.

Every bite is buttery, garlicky, and delightfully crispy on the crust.

French Baguette with Olive Oil

French baguette with olive oil is crisp, airy, and subtly flavorful.

The olive oil enriches the dough while maintaining a tender interior and a golden, crunchy crust.

This versatile bread is perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or serving with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

• Combine warm water and yeast, letting it foam for 5–10 minutes.
• Mix flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape dough into a long baguette and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Allow a second rise of 30–45 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a pan of water for steam.
• Score the top with diagonal slashes and bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
• Cool before slicing.

French baguette with olive oil is crisp, airy, and slightly golden.

It’s perfect for dipping, serving with cheese, or making sandwiches.

The olive oil enhances flavor and ensures a tender, delicious crumb

Stuffed French Bread with Spinach and Cheese

Stuffed French bread with spinach and cheese is savory, hearty, and full of flavor.

The soft bread encases a creamy filling of spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella for a festive treat.

It’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack for gatherings and holiday meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes.
• Mix flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1–2 hours.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll dough into a rectangle, spread spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella evenly.
• Sprinkle garlic powder and pepper over the filling.
• Roll dough into a loaf and seal edges.
• Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool slightly before slicing.

Stuffed French bread with spinach and cheese is creamy, savory, and satisfying.

It’s a flavorful addition to holiday meals or a special appetizer.

Guests will love the melty cheese and tender bread combinatio

French Baguette with Sesame Seeds

French baguette with sesame seeds is crunchy, flavorful, and visually appealing.

The sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and subtle crunch while the bread remains airy and soft inside.

It’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or serving with soups and holiday spreads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape dough into a long baguette and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Brush lightly with water and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
• Score the loaf diagonally and bake 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

French baguette with sesame seeds is nutty, crisp, and golden brown.

It’s an elegant addition to holiday meals or casual dining.

The sesame seeds enhance both texture and flavor beautifully.

French Bread Knots with Garlic Butter

French bread knots with garlic butter are soft, buttery, and aromatic.

These pull-apart knots are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

They are simple to make and add a festive touch to holiday tables.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Mix flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Divide dough into small portions and roll into strips, then tie into knots.
• Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush over knots before baking.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
• Brush remaining garlic butter on hot knots and sprinkle parsley.

French bread knots are soft, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor.

They’re perfect for holiday dinners or casual snacking.

Guests will love the pull-apart texture and aromatic flavor.

French Onion Bread

French onion bread is rich, savory, and full of caramelized onion flavor.

It has a soft interior and a slightly crisp crust, enhanced by sweet, caramelized onions.

Perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or as a flavorful sandwich bread.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

• Caramelize onions in butter over low heat with sugar until golden and soft.
• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold caramelized onions into the dough and let rise 1–2 hours.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Score the top and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.

French onion bread is soft, savory, and deeply flavorful.

It’s perfect as a side or base for sandwiches.

The caramelized onions elevate the flavor, making it a holiday favorite.

French Bread with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil

French bread with sun-dried tomatoes and basil is aromatic, colorful, and flavorful.

The tomatoes add a tangy sweetness while fresh basil enhances the bread with a fragrant, savory note.

It’s perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a snack.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Instructions

• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold in sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
• Let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the loaf and bake 25–30 minutes until golden.
• Cool slightly before slicing.

French bread with sun-dried tomatoes and basil is vibrant, aromatic, and flavorful.

It’s a festive bread perfect for holiday meals or entertaining guests.

The combination of tomatoes and basil enhances both taste and aroma.

French Olive Bread

French olive bread is savory, aromatic, and packed with Mediterranean flavors.

Kalamata olives add a salty richness while the dough remains soft and airy with a golden crust.

Perfect as a side for cheese boards, soups, or as a sandwich base.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped Kalamata olives

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold in chopped olives and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

French olive bread is savory, soft, and aromatic with a golden crust.

It’s perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals or as a festive bread option.

Guests will enjoy the bold flavor of olives in every bite

Garlic and Rosemary French Bread

Garlic and rosemary French bread is aromatic, flavorful, and perfect for holiday tables.

The combination of fresh rosemary and roasted garlic infuses the loaf with a savory, fragrant aroma.

It has a crisp crust and soft, tender interior, ideal for pairing with soups or salads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold in garlic and rosemary and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Cool before slicing.

Garlic and rosemary French bread is savory, aromatic, and golden brown.

It adds a festive, flavorful touch to any meal.

Guests will love the combination of garlic, herbs, and soft bread.

French Bread with Caramelized Onions and Thyme

French bread with caramelized onions and thyme is sweet, savory, and rich in flavor.

The onions provide a natural sweetness, while thyme adds a subtle herbal note.

This loaf is perfect for sandwiches, dips, or enjoying plain with butter.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

• Caramelize onions in butter with sugar over low heat until soft and golden.
• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes.
• Combine flour and salt, knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold caramelized onions and thyme into dough and let rise 1–2 hours.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Score the top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden.

French bread with caramelized onions and thyme is aromatic, sweet, and savory.

It’s a flavorful loaf perfect for holiday gatherings or special dinners.

Guests will enjoy the tender bread and rich onion flavor.

French Cheddar and Chive Bread

French cheddar and chive bread is savory, cheesy, and full of flavor.

The cheddar melts into the dough, while fresh chives add a bright, aromatic touch.

It’s perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or as a side with soups and salads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Mix flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold in cheddar and chives, then let dough rise 1–2 hours.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.

French cheddar and chive bread is cheesy, flavorful, and golden brown.

It’s a perfect savory addition to holiday meals.

Guests will enjoy the combination of melted cheese and aromatic chives.

French Bread with Sunflower Seeds

French bread with sunflower seeds is nutty, crisp, and wholesome.

The seeds add a delightful crunch and mild flavor while keeping the bread light and airy inside.

It’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a side to soups and salads.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

• Activate yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, then knead in yeast mixture, olive oil, and sunflower seeds for 8–10 minutes.
• Let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
• Shape into a loaf, sprinkle extra sunflower seeds on top, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the loaf and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.

French bread with sunflower seeds is crunchy, nutty, and golden brown.

It’s perfect for adding texture and flavor to meals.

Guests will enjoy the nutty aroma and crisp crust.

French Olive and Rosemary Loaf

French olive and rosemary loaf is savory, aromatic, and Mediterranean-inspired.

The olives add salty richness, while rosemary brings a fragrant, herbal note.

This bread is perfect for sandwiches, cheese boards, or as a side with soups.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chopped black olives
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

• Dissolve yeast in warm water for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine flour and salt, knead in yeast mixture and olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
• Fold in chopped olives and rosemary, then let dough rise 1–2 hours.
• Shape into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise 30–45 minutes, then preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Score the top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.

French olive and rosemary loaf is aromatic, savory, and flavorful.

It’s a festive and Mediterranean-inspired bread perfect for gatherings.

Guests will love the bold olive flavor and fragrant rosemary aroma.