Name: Crusty French Bread Rolls
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F); 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Why You’ll Love Crusty French Bread Rolls Recipe

The rolls have the ideal contrast: a crunchy exterior and light, fluffy inside that feels artisan‑made.
They use simple, everyday ingredients — flour, water, yeast, salt, and a bit of sugar — but transform into something deeply satisfying.
With a little kneading and a proper rise, they’re achievable even for beginner bakers and make your meals feel special.
They pair beautifully with a wide variety of meals — soups, stews, salads — or can be enjoyed on their own with a spread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour
warm water
active dry yeast
salt
sugar

Directions

Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a rough dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm location until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Shape each portion into a round roll.
Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them and let rise again for about 30 minutes, or until nearly doubled.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For a crustier finish, place a pan of water at the bottom of the oven or mist the rolls with water before baking.
Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 to 16 rolls, depending on how large you shape them.
Total time: 2 to 2.5 hours including rising and baking.

Variations

Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an herby flavor.
Mix in shredded cheeses such as parmesan, asiago, or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
Shape the dough into a baguette or loaf instead of individual rolls.
For added flavor complexity, let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight for a slow cold fermentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
For longer storage, freeze rolls in a sealed freezer-safe bag.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes until warm and the crust is refreshed.

FAQs

What makes French bread rolls different from other rolls?

French bread rolls are known for their crusty, golden-brown exterior and airy, tender interior, thanks to a steam bake and well-kneaded dough.

Do I have to knead the dough by hand?

No, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Both methods work well.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works too. You can mix it directly into the flour without proofing, but rising times may vary slightly.

How do I get a crisp, crusty exterior on the rolls?

Use steam while baking — either by misting the rolls with water or placing a pan of hot water in the oven during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. After the first rise, refrigerate the dough or shaped rolls and bake them later after bringing them to room temperature.

How long do the rolls stay fresh?

They stay fresh for 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes. Once completely cooled, freeze them in a sealed bag. Reheat in the oven to bring back the crusty texture.

Do I need a special oven or equipment?

No special equipment is needed. A standard oven and baking sheet will work fine. Optional: use a pan of water to generate steam.

What if the dough is too sticky to handle?

Lightly flour your hands and work surface. Add flour in small amounts only if necessary — too much can make the rolls dense.

Can I make larger rolls or a loaf instead of small rolls?

Absolutely. Shape the dough as you like, just be sure to adjust baking time for larger portions.

Conclusion

Crusty French Bread Rolls bring bakery-level quality to your home kitchen. With simple ingredients and just a bit of effort, you can enjoy warm, fresh rolls with a crisp crust and airy center any time you like. Whether paired with dinner or enjoyed as a snack, these rolls are a satisfying and versatile addition to your baking repertoire.