Description
This easy homemade baguette recipe gives you a crisp, golden crust and a soft, airy interior—just like a classic French bakery! With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy fresh, homemade baguettes straight from your oven. Perfect for sandwiches, bruschetta, or simply with butter and jam!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups (450g) bread flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for a softer crust)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. (Or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.)
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the baguettes: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Shape each into a long baguette, about 14 inches long, and place them on a floured or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack to create steam (this helps form a crispy crust).
- Score and bake: Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make 3–4 diagonal slashes on each baguette. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the baguettes cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm with butter or your favorite spreads!
Notes
- For a crunchier crust, spray the baguettes with water before baking.
- If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the flour.
- Store leftovers in a paper bag or loosely covered with a towel to maintain crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg