Baguette
A simple and rewarding recipe for homemade baguettes with a crisp crust and soft interior, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3.5 cups 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour Consider using bread flour for a better texture.
- 1.5 teaspoons 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1.25 cups 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) Warm water is essential for activating the yeast.
- as needed cup Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast. Pour in the warm water and mix until all the ingredients are incorporated, and a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stretch and fold method by folding the dough over itself every 10 minutes for about 30 minutes.
First Rise
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Baguettes
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long baguette by flattening it into a rectangle, then rolling it tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
Second Rise
- Place the shaped baguettes seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
- About 20 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a shallow pan in the bottom of the oven.
Score the Baguettes
- Once the baguettes have risen, use a sharp knife or bread lame to make several diagonal slashes across the tops.
Bake
- Carefully pour hot water into the pan at the bottom of the oven to create steam. This will help develop that crispy crust. Place the baguettes in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool
- Once baked, remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Keep baguettes in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven to restore crispness.