Classic French Baguette from Scratch

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups of warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 3 1/4 cups of bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Dissolve the sugar in the warm water then add the yeast and let it stand for about 5 minutes until the mixture begins to froth.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
  3. Mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a clean, oiled bowl and cover with a moist kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 2 equal parts. Roll each part into a long, thin baguette shape. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a baking stone, place it in the oven to heat.
  7. Just before baking, slash the tops of your loaves with a sharp knife. This will help them expand during baking.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the baguettes are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Allow the baguettes to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Whole wheat baguette: Substitute half or all of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Cheese-stuffed baguette: Cut the baguette into slices halfway through the loaf, then stuff each slit with your favorite cheese before baking.
  • Herb-infused baguette: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a flavorful twist.
  • Garlic baguette: Mix minced garlic into the dough or brush the top of the baked baguette with garlic-infused olive oil.
  • Seeded baguette: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds on top of the baguette before baking for added texture.
  • Gluten-free baguette: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of bread flour to make a gluten-free version.
  • Vegan baguette: Replace the water with unsweetened plant-based milk and use a vegan butter substitute to brush the baguette instead of egg wash.
  • Pesto baguette: Spread a layer of pesto on the inside of the baguette before baking for a burst of flavor.
  • Chocolate-filled baguette: Fill the baguette with chocolate chips or Nutella before baking for a sweet treat.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the warm, crusty delight of homemade baguettes with this simple recipe. Perfect for beginners and bread connoisseurs alike, these baguettes are a versatile addition to any meal. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a little bit of patience, you'll be rewarded with two beautiful loaves of bread that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Expect a hands-on experience, as you'll be kneading the dough and shaping your own loaves. But don't worry, the delicious aroma and incredible taste of the freshly baked baguettes make it worth the effort. Enjoy it on its own, with butter, or as the base for your favorite sandwich.

Common questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the amount and follow the instructions provided by the specific brand of instant yeast you are using.
  2. How long should I knead the dough? Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  3. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? While bread flour is recommended for a better texture and rise, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute if needed. Keep in mind that the texture and crust of the baguette may differ slightly.
  4. Do I need a baking stone to make baguettes? A baking stone is not mandatory, but it helps to achieve a crispier crust. If you don't have a baking stone, you can still bake the baguettes on a regular baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. What if I don't have a moist kitchen towel to cover the dough? If you don't have a moist kitchen towel, you can use plastic wrap to cover the bowl while the dough rises.
  6. Can I freeze the baguettes? Yes, you can freeze the baguettes. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
  7. What can I serve with baguettes? Baguettes are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They are perfect for making sandwiches, serving alongside soups or stews, or enjoying with cheese and charcuterie.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking Sheet - Used for baking the baguettes in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Kitchen Towel - Used to cover the dough during rising to keep it moist and prevent drying out.
  • Sharp Knife - Used for slashing the tops of the baguettes before baking to allow them to expand.
  • Wire Rack - Used for cooling the baked baguettes, allowing air to circulate and preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Origin stories

Ah, the humble baguette, a culinary symbol as French as the Eiffel Tower itself. But did you know that its elongated shape was not born out of fashion, but function? Legend has it that during the Napoleonic era, the French government decreed that all bread must be made in the same shape and size to ensure fair distribution among the soldiers. The baguette, with its long and slender form, was easy to carry in the soldiers' packs or even slipped down the leg of their trousers. So next time you tear into a crusty baguette, remember, you're not just enjoying a loaf of bread, you're partaking in a piece of French history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.