Fresh Homemade Baguettes

Homemade baguettes may require practice to perfect, but the satisfaction of pulling a golden, crusty loaf from your oven makes it all worthwhile. So, don your apron, get the ingredients sorted and start baking your own French baguettes at home.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Dough Rising 2

Servings Baguettes

Ingredients

Instructions

Mixing the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, salt, and chopped fresh herbs (See Notes below).
500 g bread flour, 10 g salt
In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
7 g active dry yeast, 350 ml water
Kneading: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Shaping: After the first rise, gently deflate the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a rough rectangle, then fold the long sides towards the centre and seal the seam. Roll each piece into a cylinder, tapering the ends to form the classic baguette shape.
Second Rise: Place the shaped baguettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Just before baking, slash the tops of the baguettes with a sharp knife or razor blade to allow for expansion. Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flaky sea salt on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling: Allow the baguettes to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your herb-infused baguettes with butter, cheese, or as a perfect accompaniment to soups and salads.
With this recipe, you'll create two flavourful and aromatic baguettes infused with fresh herbs, perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit!

Notes

To add additional flavours try adding 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme or basil.
You will need a little extra flour for dusting.

Alternatively to add a new dimension try adding sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flaky sea salt for topping

Nutrition