Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. These homemade French baguettes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying on their own. With a little patience and a few ingredients, you can create delicious baguettes that rival any bakery’s offering. Follow this recipe to make your own golden, crusty baguettes at home!
Recipe for Homemade French Baguettes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until it forms a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Baguettes:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove air. Divide the dough into three equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a long, thin baguette shape, around 12-14 inches long.
- Place the baguettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a cloth, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking pan with water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps achieve a crisp crust.
- Using a sharp knife, make diagonal slashes on the surface of each baguette for a traditional look.
- Bake the Baguettes:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the baguettes cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked baguettes!