The Best Homemade Baguette Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade baguette recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bake fresh bread with a golden crust and soft, airy inside. You’ll feel like a pro baker with just a few simple steps.
- Easy to Make: With basic ingredients and no fancy tools, this recipe is beginner-friendly and stress-free.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the crust and the pillowy softness of the interior.
- Versatile Use: Whether for sandwiches, dipping, or just enjoying with butter, this baguette is a meal-time hero.
Recipe
Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked baguettes straight from the oven. This classic French bread has a crisp crust and a soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches or as a side to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
- 500g (3 ¾ cups) bread flour
- 360ml (1 ½ cups) warm water (about 100°F/38°C)
- 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the baguettes: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a long, thin log (about 14–16 inches).
- Second rise: Place the shaped dough on a floured baking sheet or baguette pan, cover, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking dish with water on the bottom rack to create steam.
- Score the dough: Using a sharp knife or razor, make 3–4 diagonal slashes on each baguette.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Let cool before slicing.
Notes:
- For a chewier crust, brush the baguettes with water before baking.
- Store in a paper bag to maintain crispiness.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or baguette pan
- Sharp knife or razor
Time:
- Prep time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: French
Serving: 2 baguettes
Nutrition
The nutrition information for this homemade baguette recipe is based on one serving. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing this homemade baguette with creamy cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar, as they perfectly complement its crusty exterior. A warm bowl of tomato soup or hearty vegetable stew makes it even more satisfying, especially on chilly days. It’s amazing how a simple loaf can turn a meal into something special!
Cheese Pairings
When you’ve got a freshly baked baguette, pairing it with the right cheese can turn a simple snack into something unforgettable. I love starting with creamy brie—it melts beautifully on warm slices and feels indulgent. For something sharp, aged cheddar or gouda adds a bold contrast to the bread’s crunch. Goat cheese brings a tangy twist, especially with a drizzle of honey. If you’re feeling fancy, blue cheese offers a rich, complex flavor that’s surprisingly satisfying. And don’t forget mozzarella—paired with fresh tomato and basil, it’s a mini bite of heaven. Experiment with your favorites, and you’ll never go wrong!
Soup Combinations
After enjoying a baguette with cheese, why not switch things up and pair it with a comforting bowl of soup? I love dipping a warm, crusty baguette into a creamy tomato bisque or a rich French onion soup—the crunch soaks up the flavors perfectly. For something lighter, try a veggie-packed minestrone or a smooth butternut squash soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy lentil or Moroccan chickpea stew adds a kick. Trust me, there’s nothing like tearing off a piece of baguette and savoring it with every spoonful. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes any meal feel special.
