French Whole Wheat Bread Recipe || Best Here’s

If there’s one bread that embodies both simplicity and elegance, it’s French whole wheat bread recipe.

This French whole wheat bread recipe classic loaf, made with whole wheat flour, delivers a hearty, nutty flavor while maintaining the rustic charm that French breads are known for.

What I love about making French whole wheat bread is the balance between the robust taste of whole grains and the light, airy texture that still feels soft on the inside with a crisp, golden crust.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you bake a loaf that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.

This bread is perfect for making sandwiches, serving alongside soups, or enjoying with some fresh butter and a drizzle of honey. Let’s dive into the details so you can master this recipe!

Is Whole Wheat French Bread Healthy?

Yes, whole wheat French bread is a healthy option because it’s made with whole wheat flour, which retains the bran and germ of the wheat grain.

This adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are often lost in refined flours. The higher fiber content supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar, while the protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron contribute to overall health.

Whole wheat French bread is a more nutritious alternative to regular white bread, offering a balance of great taste and health benefits.

How To Prepare French Whole Wheat Bread Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Rising Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Bake Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Course: Bread

Cuisine: French

Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10 slices)

Kitchen Utensils

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Baking stone (optional for crusty texture)
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 tablespoon wheat bran or oats (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, I dissolve the honey in warm water, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. I let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and active. This ensures the yeast is alive and will give the bread a good rise.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour, providing a well-balanced flavor.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Next, I pour the activated yeast mixture into the dry ingredients along with the olive oil. Using a wooden spoon, I mix everything together until a rough dough forms. The dough should be sticky but manageable.

4. Knead the Dough

I knead the dough either by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 7-8 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, no longer sticking to your hands or the sides of the bowl.

5. First Rise

Once the dough is kneaded, I shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it evenly. I cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. Shape the Dough

After the first rise, I punch down the dough to release the air, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. I shape it into a loaf or boule, depending on the final look I want. If you prefer, you can place the dough in a greased loaf pan for a more uniform shape.

7. Second Rise

I cover the shaped dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, it will puff up and develop more flavor.

8. Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising for the second time, I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). For an extra crisp crust, I place a baking stone in the oven as it heats or add a shallow pan of water to create steam.

9. Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, I bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should reach about 200°F (93°C) for perfectly baked bread.

10. Cool and Serve

Once baked, I remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This step is essential, as it allows the bread to finish cooking inside and firms up the crust. After about 20-30 minutes, it’s ready to slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts French Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

Calories: 160 kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 5g

Fat: 4g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 250mg

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 2g

Special Note

If you prefer a softer crust, brush the loaf with olive oil or melted butter right after it comes out of the oven.

For a crunchier, more artisanal finish, sprinkle the top with wheat bran or oats before baking. Whole wheat flour tends to absorb more water, so if the dough feels too dry, I add a tablespoon of water at a time during mixing.

Serve Whole Wheat French Bread Recipe

1. With Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar – Slice the bread and serve with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

2. As Sandwich Bread – Use it to make hearty sandwiches filled with meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables.

3. Toasted with Butter and Jam – Toast a slice and top it with butter and your favorite jam for a simple breakfast.

4. Alongside Soups or Stews – Serve the bread as a side with a warm bowl of soup or stew to soak up the broth.

5. With Cheese and Charcuterie – Pair slices with a cheese and charcuterie board for a delicious appetizer or snack.

FAQs About French Whole Wheat Bread

Conclusion

Making French whole wheat bread reecipe at home is a rewarding experience that brings together the rustic charm of French baking and the wholesome goodness of whole grains.

This French whole wheat bread recipe is more than just a meal accompaniment—it’s a reflection of the tradition and care that goes into each loaf.

The combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flours strikes a perfect balance between a soft interior and a robust, crispy crust.

I love how versatile this bread is, whether you’re toasting it for breakfast, using it for sandwiches, or pairing it with your favorite soups and stews.

It’s a hearty, healthy option that adds a rich flavor to any meal. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s worth the time and effort to make your own French whole wheat bread recipe from scratch.