How to Make Ficelle: A Thin French Breadstick with a Crispy Crust

 

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Introduction: What Is Ficelle?

Ficelle (pronounced fee-sell) is a classic French bread similar to a baguette but thinner, lighter, and often served as a delicate appetiser or side. The word ficelle means "string" in French, which perfectly describes this slender loaf’s long, thin appearance.

In this step-by-step recipe, you’ll learn how to make ficelle at home using simple British ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a charcuterie board or want to serve freshly baked bread with soup or cheese, ficelle is an elegant, artisan option.

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Ingredients for 4 Ficelle Loaves

500g strong white bread flour

7g fast-action dried yeast

10g fine sea salt

320ml lukewarm water

Extra flour for dusting

Olive oil (for greasing)

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Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl

Dough scraper or wooden spoon

Baking tray or baguette tray

Sharp knife or bread lame

Clean tea towel or cling film

Wire cooling rack

Tray of water for oven steam (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Ficelle

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Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt on one side, and the yeast on the other. Slowly pour in the lukewarm water, mixing with your hand or a spoon until you form a sticky dough.

Tip: Avoid adding extra flour during mixing; the dough should be soft and tacky.

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Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes.

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Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling film or a damp tea towel, and leave to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 4: Shape the Ficelles

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a long, thin loaf—about 30–35 cm in length and slimmer than a baguette.

Place each ficelle onto a lined or floured baking tray, leaving space in between. For best results, use a baguette tray to help maintain shape.

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Step 5: Second Rise

Cover loosely with a floured cloth and allow the ficelles to rise again for 30–40 minutes, until slightly puffy but still firm enough to hold their shape.

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Step 6: Preheat Oven with Steam

Preheat your oven to 230°C (210°C fan) / Gas Mark 8. Place a baking dish with water on the bottom shelf to create steam—this enhances the crust.

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Step 7: Score and Bake

Before baking, use a bread lame or sharp knife to make 3–4 quick diagonal slashes across each loaf. This allows controlled expansion during baking.

Bake the ficelles for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

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Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Allow to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing or serving.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with butter or herb olive oil

Pair with soft cheeses like brie or camembert

Ideal for tapas-style spreads or charcuterie boards

Use as a base for open sandwiches or bruschetta

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Tips for the Perfect Ficelle

High hydration dough gives a better crumb—don’t be afraid of slightly sticky dough.

Steam in the oven is key to creating the iconic crunchy crust.

Use strong white flour for the right balance of chew and softness.

Don’t skip scoring—it creates a beautiful finish and helps the bread rise evenly.

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Storage Advice

Best eaten fresh on the same day

Store in a paper bag for up to 2 days

To refresh, reheat in a 180°C oven for 5 minutes

Can be frozen for up to 1 month—wrap tightly before freezing

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Learn how to make ficelle, a thin and crusty French breadstick, with this easy step-by-step British recipe. Perfect for appetisers, cheese boards, or sandwiches.

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Conclusion

Once you’ve mastered how to make ficelle, you’ll want to bake it again and again. This elegant, slim French bread adds a touch of sophistication to any meal—whether as a simple snack with butter or the centrepiece of a cheese board. It’s also a wonderful way to improve your bread-baking skills and impress your guests with homemade artisan loaves.