Description
Learn how to make classic crusty French baguettes at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. These homemade baguettes are perfect for any meal and will impress your family and friends with their authentic taste and texture.
Ingredients
Bread Flour:
3 1/2 cups (420g)
Salt:
1 1/2 teaspoons
Sugar:
1 teaspoon
Active Dry Yeast:
2 1/4 teaspoons
Warm Water (110°F/43°C):
1 1/4 cups (295ml)
Extra Flour for Dusting
Cornmeal for Dusting Baking Sheet
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in sugar and salt, then gradually add the flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rise Dough: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape Baguettes: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each piece into a long baguette, about 14 inches long.
- Final Rise: Place the baguettes on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Create steam by placing a pan of hot water on the bottom rack. Slash the tops of the baguettes and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Cool the baguettes on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, mist the loaves with water just before and once during baking.
- You can also use a baking stone for a more traditional texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
