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Amberly Vahn

Delicious Homemade French Baguettes

Master the art of baking classic French baguettes with a crusty exterior and soft interior, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 2 baguettes
Course: Bread
Cuisine: French
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • Extra flour for dusting

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or dough whisk
  • Bench scraper
  • Baking stone or parchment-lined baking sheet
  • Damp kitchen towel
  • Wire rack
  • Sharp knife or bread lame
  • Spray bottle

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually stir in the warm water using a wooden spoon or dough whisk.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the kneaded dough into a clean bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
  4. Gently punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long baguette.
  5. Place the shaped baguettes seam-side down on a baking stone or parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a damp towel, and let rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 450°F. If using a baking stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
  7. Score the tops of the baguettes with three diagonal cuts. Mist the baguettes and the oven with water before baking.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Let the baguettes cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Don’t forget to mist the baguettes before baking; steam is crucial for a crispy crust!