Few things evoke the essence of comfort and satisfaction quite like a freshly baked French baguette. With its crisp crust and soft interior, a perfectly crafted baguette can elevate any meal or simply be enjoyed on its own. Fortunately, my family has honed a foolproof recipe for easy homemade baguettes that requires just four simple ingredients and minimal effort.
For years, my family has been delighting in the process of baking these baguettes, and now, I’m excited to share our beloved recipe with you. With just a few pantry staples and some basic equipment, you too can experience the joy of baking your own delicious baguettes at home.
Ingredients
– 5 cups of all-purpose flour
– 5 teaspoons of active yeast
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 2 cups of warm water
– (optional) 1 egg + ¼ cup water for egg wash
Equipment
– Stand mixer with bread-hook attachment
– Large bowl
– Cookie sheet
– Rolling pin
– Parchment paper
– Plastic wrap
Mixing the Dough
Begin by combining 2 cups of flour with the yeast and salt in a stand mixer. Gradually add 2 cups of warm water and mix on low speed until a sticky base dough forms. Then, add the remaining 3 cups of flour and continue mixing until a thick, semi-sticky dough ball is formed.
Letting the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for about an hour. During this time, the dough will double in size as the yeast works its magic.
Shaping the Baguettes
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Roll out each ball into a flat, ovular shape using a rolling pin, then roll it up into a long tube, pinching the ends shut. Place the dough tubes on a prepared cookie sheet and let them rest for another 20 minutes.
Baking the Baguettes
Preheat your oven to 375°F while the dough rests. If desired, brush the baguettes with an egg wash for a crustier finish. Then, slash the risen dough diagonally with a serrated knife and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, apply another coat of egg wash and rotate the pan in the oven for even baking. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the baguettes are golden brown and crisp.
Enjoying the Baguettes
Once baked, transfer the baguettes to a cooling rack to cool slightly before slicing and serving. These homemade baguettes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored for up to two days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the baguettes and reheat them in a preheated oven at 450°F for about 10 minutes.
