Homemade French Baguette Recipe: Crispy, Chewy, and Irresistible

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There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own French Baguette. With its crisp golden crust, chewy interior, and classic flavor, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, soups, or simply enjoying with butter. Follow this step-by-step guide to create bakery-style baguettes right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Authentic Flavor and Texture: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, just like traditional French baguettes.
  2. Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples—flour, water, yeast, and salt.
  3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy as a side, for sandwiches, or as a centerpiece for your table.
  4. Rewarding to Make: The process is straightforward and the results are incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups (450g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (about 110°F/45°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: First Rise

  1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Baguettes

  1. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then divide it into 2-3 equal portions.
  2. Roll each portion into a rectangle, then fold it tightly lengthwise to form a long baguette shape. Pinch the seam to seal.
  3. Place the baguettes on a lightly floured baking sheet or a baguette pan, seam-side down. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Place a baking dish with water on the lower rack to create steam, which helps achieve a crispy crust.

Step 5: Score and Bake

  1. Using a sharp knife or razor blade, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on the top of each baguette.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the baguettes are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, cheese, or your favorite spreads.

Tips for Perfect French Baguettes

  1. Hydration is Key: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable, which ensures a soft interior.
  2. Steam for Crispy Crust: A pan of water in the oven helps develop that iconic crust.
  3. Don’t Skip the Scoring: This allows the baguette to expand evenly during baking.
  4. Use a Baguette Pan: This helps the bread keep its shape but isn’t necessary if you shape the loaves well.

Nutritional Information (Per Baguette Slice)

  • Calories: 70
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fat: 0.5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 100mg

Conclusion

This Homemade French Baguette Recipe is your gateway to mastering the art of French bread baking. With a crisp crust, chewy interior, and authentic flavor, it’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it for the first time, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and utterly delicious. Bon appétit!

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