Homemade French Baguette Recipe

This Homemade French Baguette recipe is simple and requires just a few ingredients. It produces crusty, golden-brown loaves with a soft, airy interior. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or enjoying with butter, this classic bread is a must-try for baking enthusiasts.

Ingredients

4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a softer texture)

Instructions Homemade French Baguette

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

Gradually pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. If using olive oil, add it at this stage.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Baguettes

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 3 equal portions.

Roll each portion into a long, thin baguette shape and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each baguette for expansion.

Using a sharp knife or razor, make 3–4 diagonal slashes on the top of each baguette.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the shaped baguettes with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 20–30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam, which helps achieve a crispy crust.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the baguettes for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.

Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Baguettes Homemade French Baguette

Steam for Crust: The pan of water in the oven helps create steam, resulting in a crispy crust. Alternatively, spray water into the oven just after placing the baguettes inside.

Flour Variations: Use bread flour for a chewier texture or mix in whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storage: Store leftover baguettes in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore freshness.

Freeze for Later: Wrap cooled baguettes in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Slice and serve with butter or jam.

Use as a base for sandwiches or bruschetta.

Pair with soups, stews, or charcuterie boards.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5–3 hours

Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Baguette, approximately):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 1g
• Sugar: 1g