French Baguette
The French baguette is a classic bread known for its crunchy crust and airy texture, perfect for sandwiches or enjoyed with butter.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 ⅔ cups warm water Use warm water, but not hot, as it can kill the yeast.
- 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3-4 cups all-purpose flour Start with 3 cups and add more as needed.
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
Making the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Slowly add 3 cups of flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
Rising the Dough
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.
- Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
Shaping and Final Rise
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions.
- Shape each piece into a long baguette.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
Baking the Baguettes
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Make a few shallow slashes on top of each baguette.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool before slicing.
Notes
For a crisper crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking. You can add herbs or cheese to the dough for added flavor. Olive oil can also replace some of the water for a richer taste.