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Homemade Baguette photo

Baguette

This Baguette is a must-try! Enjoy the golden crust and soft interior of this classic French bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Bread
Cuisine: French
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Baguette:
  • 3 cups bread flour (360 grams), plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast (4 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (4 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (22 grams)
  • 1 cup warm water (227 grams, about 110°F)

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Dough scraper
  • Baking sheet or baguette pan
  • Sharp knife or lame
  • Kitchen towel
  • Instant read thermometer

Method
 

How to Prepare Baguette:
  1. Step 1: Mix the Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, kosher salt, and honey. Mix these dry ingredients until they are well incorporated. Slowly add the warm water while stirring to form a shaggy dough.
  2. Step 2: Knead the Dough - Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much.
  3. Step 3: First Rise - Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Step 4: Shape the Baguettes - Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Gently stretch and shape each piece into a long loaf, tapering the ends slightly.
  5. Step 5: Second Rise - Place the shaped baguettes on a baking sheet or baguette pan lined with parchment paper. Cover them with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
  6. Step 6: Preheat the Oven - While the baguettes are rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place an empty baking pan on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam during baking.
  7. Step 7: Score the Baguettes - Just before baking, use a sharp knife or lame to make several diagonal slashes on the top of each baguette. This allows the bread to expand and creates that signature look.
  8. Step 8: Bake - Carefully place the baguettes in the preheated oven. Pour a cup of hot water into the empty baking pan on the bottom rack to generate steam. Bake the baguettes for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Step 9: Cool - Remove the baguettes from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. This cooling time helps to set the crust and finish the baking process.

Notes

  • For a herb-infused baguette, add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
  • To make a savory version, mix chopped olives and minced garlic into the dough.
  • For added texture, top the baguettes with sesame or poppy seeds before baking.