The Easiest Baguette Recipe: Bake Perfect Loaves Today
This easy baguette recipe creates golden, crusty loaves with a soft interior using simple ingredients and straightforward steps—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 2–3 baguettes (6–8 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for softer crust)
- Cornmeal or flour, for dusting
Instructions
- Combine warm water and yeast in a large bowl and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in flour and salt to form a sticky dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a mixer.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and divide into 2–3 portions. Shape each into a baguette log.
- Place on a parchment-lined or cornmeal-dusted baking sheet. Cover and rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a pan of hot water on the lower rack.
- Score the tops of the loaves with diagonal slashes using a sharp knife or blade.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for flavor.
- Swap some flour for whole wheat or rye for a nuttier loaf.
- Mix in olives or cheese for a savory twist.
- Use a little honey or sugar for a sweeter version.
- Spritz the oven during baking for an extra crispy crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 loaf)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
