French bread flour is a unique ingredient, offering a high-protein structure that’s ideal for creating crusty, airy, and flavorful bread with the perfect balance of chew and softness.
Known for its role in classic French loaves, this flour brings out a delightful depth and texture in any bread recipe.
Whether you’re looking to master an authentic French baguette, bake a golden pain de mie, or explore a creative twist on classic bread recipes, French bread flour offers versatility and delicious results.
In this collection, we’ve curated over 25 delightful recipes using French bread flour, ranging from traditional baguettes to innovative sweet and savory breads.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, you’ll find a recipe here to suit your baking dreams.
25+ Easy & Tasty French Bread Flour Recipes to Try
With the wide array of recipes presented here, French bread flour becomes an essential ingredient in your pantry.
From the crispy crust of a French boule to the tender, slightly sweet crumb of a Pain Viennois, these recipes show the versatility and flavor this flour brings to every bake.
French bread flour not only enhances the texture and structure of your bread but also introduces an authentic taste that transports your kitchen to the heart of France.
Each recipe invites you to experiment, explore, and savor the art of bread baking in new ways.
Try a few, master your favorites, and bring the warmth and aroma of freshly baked French-inspired bread to your home!
Classic French Baguette
The classic French baguette is known for its crispy crust and light, airy crumb—a staple of French cuisine and perfect for any occasion. Using French bread flour, which has a slightly higher protein content, gives the dough elasticity, enabling it to achieve that iconic chewiness and structure. This recipe combines tradition with ease, guiding you to create a delicious baguette that rivals the ones found in French bakeries.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 350ml warm water
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking stone or sheet inside.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each piece into a long baguette form, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Score the tops of the baguettes with a sharp knife, then bake on the hot stone or sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
This classic baguette recipe using French bread flour will impress you with its depth of flavor and perfect texture. The flour enhances the dough’s strength, giving your baguette a wonderful structure. Pair with a cheese platter, soup, or simply enjoy with a slather of butter for a touch of Parisian charm in every bite.
Rustic French Boule
The French boule, a round loaf with a thick, crispy crust and a soft, open crumb, is the ideal bread for any meal. This recipe uses French bread flour, which contributes to the bread’s robust texture and deep flavor. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, this boule recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers looking to make authentic French bread at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 350ml water
- 10g sea salt
- 2g instant yeast
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the French bread flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add water gradually, stirring until the ingredients are combined into a sticky dough.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid inside.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf (boule) and place it on a piece of parchment paper.
- Once the Dutch oven is hot, carefully transfer the dough with the parchment into the pot, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
The rustic French boule is both beautiful and delicious, offering a flavorful crust and a tender crumb that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or dipping in stews. With the help of French bread flour, this recipe brings out the loaf’s full potential, delivering a hearty and delightful addition to any meal.
French Pain de Campagne (Country Bread)
Pain de Campagne, or “country bread,” is a French classic that combines French bread flour with a bit of whole wheat for a complex, rustic flavor. Known for its crunchy crust and slightly sour crumb, this bread is traditionally made to last a few days and is versatile enough to pair with nearly any meal. Perfect for rustic meals or even as breakfast toast, this loaf embodies the wholesome charm of French countryside baking.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 100g whole wheat flour
- 10g sea salt
- 5g active dry yeast
- 375ml water
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the French bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water and add it to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead for 10-12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Score the top of the dough, place it on the baking sheet, and bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is dark golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Pain de Campagne is a wonderfully rustic loaf that pairs well with any meal. Using French bread flour provides structure to the bread while enhancing its rich flavor. Whether enjoyed with a spread of butter, a slice of cheese, or alongside a hearty soup, this bread delivers a taste of the French countryside with every slice.
French Epi Bread (Wheat Stalk Bread)
French Epi bread is a decorative and delicious bread shaped to resemble a stalk of wheat, making it a visually appealing addition to any table. Made with French bread flour, this bread has a satisfying chewiness and a crisp crust. Though it may look intricate, this recipe breaks down the process into easy steps, allowing you to create a beautiful, rustic loaf perfect for serving with dinner or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 350ml warm water
Instructions:
- Mix the warm water and yeast in a large bowl, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the French bread flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the dough into a long baguette, and use kitchen scissors to cut small, angled slits along the top, pulling each segment to the side to form the wheat stalk shape.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
French Epi bread is an eye-catching addition to any meal and a fun twist on the classic baguette. French bread flour gives this bread its signature texture, and the shaping process makes it as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it as a centerpiece for gatherings or as a unique snack option—either way, it’s sure to impress.
French Fougasse Bread with Herbs
Fougasse is a French flatbread, often compared to Italian focaccia, with a soft, airy crumb and a flavor-rich crust. This recipe uses French bread flour for the perfect balance of chew and crispiness, complemented by fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Shaped to resemble a leaf, this bread is not only delicious but also a visually impressive addition to your bread repertoire. It’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 5g instant yeast
- 250ml warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about an hour until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Flatten the dough into an oval shape and make slits in a leaf pattern. Sprinkle with rosemary and thyme.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
French Fougasse bread is a flavorful, aromatic treat that’s easy to make and delightful to eat. The French bread flour helps achieve a crispy crust and soft interior, while the fresh herbs add a delightful fragrance and taste. Enjoy it as a savory appetizer, side, or snack for an authentic French experience.
French Pain Viennois (Vienna Bread)
Pain Viennois, or Vienna bread, is a tender, slightly sweet bread that is wonderful for breakfast or snacks. This French classic is made with French bread flour, milk, and butter, giving it a soft, rich texture while maintaining a light crumb. Its slightly sweet flavor makes it versatile—whether you enjoy it with jam, butter, or on its own, Pain Viennois is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 50g sugar
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 250ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add the French bread flour, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Add the softened butter and knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into two pieces and shape each into a log.
- Place the loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Pain Viennois is a delightful treat that offers a soft, fluffy crumb and a subtle sweetness. The French bread flour contributes to its light, airy texture, making it perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. Serve it with butter, jam, or fresh fruit preserves to enjoy a taste of French elegance at home.
French Brioche Loaf
Brioche is a soft, buttery, and slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Made with French bread flour, this brioche has an irresistibly tender crumb and a rich flavor, thanks to the addition of eggs and butter. Its fluffy texture and delightful golden crust make it a versatile bread you can enjoy on its own or use as a base for French toast, sandwiches, or bread pudding.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 50g sugar
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 4 large eggs
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the French bread flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add the eggs, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Brush the top with egg wash, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Brioche is a decadent treat that balances a fluffy texture with a rich buttery taste. The French bread flour enhances its structure, creating a loaf that’s perfect for a variety of uses. Whether you enjoy it plain, as toast, or in creative recipes, brioche brings a touch of elegance and flavor to any table.
French Pain d’Épi (Epi Bread with Herbs)
Pain d’Épi is a stunning French bread shaped like a wheat stalk, and this recipe takes it up a notch with the addition of aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. French bread flour gives this loaf a perfect balance of a crisp crust and a soft, chewy interior. It’s a wonderful bread to bring to gatherings or to enjoy with a bowl of soup or stew.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 350ml warm water
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the French bread flour, salt, rosemary, and thyme, and stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl, covered, for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Shape the dough into a long baguette and make angled cuts with scissors, pulling each segment to the side to form the wheat stalk shape.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Pain d’Épi with herbs is a beautiful, fragrant bread that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The French bread flour gives the loaf a satisfying texture, while the herbs add an aromatic touch that pairs well with savory dishes. Perfect for dipping or serving with meals, this bread makes a show-stopping addition to your bread-making repertoire.
French Pain Poilâne (French Country Sourdough)
Pain Poilâne is a traditional French sourdough bread that originated in Paris. Known for its dark crust and deep flavor, it uses French bread flour combined with a bit of whole wheat for a balanced, hearty taste. The natural sourdough starter gives this bread a mild tang, making it perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or accompanying a charcuterie board.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 100g whole wheat flour
- 350ml water
- 10g sea salt
- 100g sourdough starter (fed and active)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the French bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
- Add the sourdough starter and water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours until nearly doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a Dutch oven with parchment paper.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf, place it in the Dutch oven, and score the top with a sharp knife.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the crust is dark and crisp.
Pain Poilâne is a classic French sourdough that captures the depth and character of traditional French country bread. With the help of French bread flour, this loaf achieves the perfect balance of chewy crumb and crispy crust. Its rich, sour flavor and hearty texture make it an excellent choice for a variety of uses, from sandwiches to serving alongside fine cheeses and charcuterie.
French Boule Bread
The classic French Boule bread, known for its round shape and rustic crust, is a versatile loaf with a wonderfully chewy texture and airy crumb. Using French bread flour helps achieve the ideal crust and structure, while the minimal ingredients make this a simple yet delicious loaf. Boule is perfect for making sandwiches, dipping in soups, or simply enjoyed with butter.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 375ml warm water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the French bread flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Score the top with a sharp knife and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
French Boule bread is a classic rustic loaf with a crispy crust and soft interior, perfect for everyday enjoyment. The French bread flour helps create a chewy texture and an airy crumb, making this bread versatile enough for sandwiches, toasts, or simply enjoying with spreads.
French Pain de Mie (Soft White Sandwich Bread)
Pain de Mie is a French sandwich bread that’s soft, light, and slightly sweet, often used for tea sandwiches or breakfast toast. French bread flour gives it a tender crumb and makes it ideal for slicing thinly without crumbling. Its soft texture and subtle flavor make Pain de Mie a wonderful base for sweet or savory toppings, or even as a foundation for French toast.
Ingredients:
- 450g French bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 30g sugar
- 10g active dry yeast
- 300ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Combine the warm milk and yeast in a bowl and let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the French bread flour, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl to rise for 1 hour, or until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a log and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes, then bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Pain de Mie is a versatile and delicious French bread with a tender crumb and delicate flavor. French bread flour brings a smooth texture to this loaf, making it ideal for sandwiches, toast, and more. Its soft, light structure is perfect for both sweet and savory dishes, making it a pantry staple.
French Pain d’Amande (Almond Bread)
Pain d’Amande, or Almond Bread, is a sweet French loaf with a hint of almond flavor and a touch of sweetness, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Using French bread flour creates a tender crumb, while ground almonds and almond extract add a delicate nutty flavor. This bread is ideal for pairing with coffee or tea, and it’s lovely when toasted with butter or jam.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 50g ground almonds
- 10g sea salt
- 50g sugar
- 10g active dry yeast
- 250ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the warm milk and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the French bread flour, ground almonds, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and almond extract, and knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle with sliced almonds if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
French Pain d’Amande is a delightful almond-flavored bread with a soft crumb and a hint of sweetness. The French bread flour helps create a tender texture, while the almond flavor adds a unique twist. Perfect for breakfast, tea, or as a treat, this bread is lovely on its own or with a spread of your choice.
French Pain Viennois (Vienna Bread)
Pain Viennois, or Vienna Bread, is a soft, slightly sweet loaf with a delicate, airy texture. Made with French bread flour, milk, and a touch of sugar, this bread has a tender crumb that’s perfect for breakfast or tea. Its light flavor pairs wonderfully with butter, jam, or even savory fillings, making it a versatile addition to your bread recipes.
Ingredients:
- 500g French bread flour
- 50g sugar
- 10g salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 250ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine French bread flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a loaf, place it on a baking sheet, and brush the top with egg wash.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Pain Viennois is a beautifully soft and subtly sweet bread with a light, airy crumb. The French bread flour gives it just the right structure, making it perfect for enjoying plain or with spreads. Its delicate flavor and texture make it ideal for any time of day, from breakfast to an afternoon snack.
French Pain de Seigle (Rye Bread with French Bread Flour)
Pain de Seigle, or French Rye Bread, is a hearty, rustic loaf that combines rye flour and French bread flour for a balanced flavor and texture. This bread has a dense, slightly nutty crumb that’s wonderful with savory toppings like cheese and cured meats. French bread flour helps create a good rise and an open crumb structure, making it a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 300g French bread flour
- 200g rye flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 350ml warm water
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water and yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the French bread flour, rye flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Score the top with a sharp knife and bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is dark and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Pain de Seigle combines the richness of rye with the strength of French bread flour, resulting in a loaf with a dense crumb and a deep, rustic flavor. This hearty bread pairs well with cheeses, spreads, or hearty soups, making it a staple for those who enjoy bread with substance and character.
French Pain au Chocolat Brioche
Pain au Chocolat Brioche is a luscious French treat that combines the richness of brioche with the indulgence of dark chocolate. French bread flour creates a tender crumb that holds its structure beautifully, while butter and eggs give it a light, soft texture. Perfect as a breakfast treat or a dessert, this bread will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 400g French bread flour
- 50g sugar
- 10g salt
- 10g active dry yeast
- 4 large eggs
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g dark chocolate (cut into small bars)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine French bread flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add the eggs, kneading until a dough forms. Gradually add the softened butter, kneading until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the dough into a rectangle and cut it into strips.
- Place a piece of chocolate at the end of each strip, rolling it up to enclose the chocolate.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Pain au Chocolat Brioche is a delightful combination of soft, buttery brioche and rich dark chocolate. The French bread flour helps create a light, tender crumb that pairs perfectly with the melted chocolate inside. Perfect for a luxurious breakfast or as a dessert, this bread is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!