French Bread Baguettes

Madison Reid
Published April 15, 2024

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This French Bread Baguette recipe transforms the simple pleasures of bread-making into an art form, resulting in soft, flavorful loaves that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to create the ideal vessel for your favorite sandwich fillings or seeking the perfect accompaniment to your dinner table, these homemade baguettes offer a delightful taste and texture that are sure to impress.

Bread has always been a staple in my kitchen, but the journey to perfecting the French bread baguette has been particularly special. Inspired by the classic French bread but in a skinny, baguette form. These baguettes are a celebration of simplicity and flavor, made with care and meant to be shared with those you love.

The Chemistry of French Bread Baguettes

The key to these baguettes lies in the fermentation of baking process. The yeast, when mixed with warm water and sugar, activates and begins the fermentation process, converting sugars into carbon dioxide and ethanol. This not only causes the dough to rise but also develops the bread’s flavor. The olive oil adds a slight richness to the dough, while the bread flour, high in gluten, ensures the baguettes have a chewy, satisfying texture. The final egg white wash creates a glossy, golden crust that’s characteristic of a perfect baguette.

How can I ensure my baguettes have a crispy crust?

The secret to a crispy curst is steam. You can create a steamy environment in your oven by placing a pan of water on the lower rack during baking. This mimics the steam ovens used in professional bakeries and helps achieve the iconic crust.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

There are a few reasons dough might not rise. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your water wasn’t too hot, as high temperatures can kill yeast. The environment where the dough rises should be warm and free from drafts.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While you can use all-purpose flour, bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content, which develops the gluten network essential for the baguette’s texture. All-purpose flour may result in a slightly denser crumb.

What’s the purpose of scoring the top of the baguettes?

Scoring the dough allows it to expand evenly during baking and creates the baguettes’ characteristic appearance. It also helps control where the crust will crack, ensuring a beautiful presentation.

What is in French Bread Baguettes?

Warm Water

Activate the yeast, beginning the fermentation process essential for the dough’s rise.

Granulated Sugar

Adds sweetness, provides a caramelized flavor and crisp texture. Sugar assists with rising when creamed with butter. It helps add moisture to your treat and helps it evenly spread as it melts into a liquid in the heat of the oven. Sugar also helps with naturally preserving your baked treat.

Yeast

Provides flavor and carbon dioxide, making your dough rise. It must be mixed with a warm liquid and sugar in order to activate.

Fine Sea Salt

Enhances flavor, adds balance, masks any bitter flavors. Salt is the most powerful and oldest preservative. Always make sure to use fine sea salt so it melts down at the right speed in the heat of the oven. If you use larger granule salt, it will not melt down fully when baked and will leave salt crystals throughout your treat, making it crunch like you dropped it into sand.

Olive Oil

Enhance flavor and tenderize the dough

Bread Flour

Is higher in protein and creates thicker treats. This is best used for bread and shouldn’t be used as a substitution for all-purpose or cake flour.

Egg Whites

Made up of protein and water, it will help leaven your baked good and add moisture.

Storage Tips

French bread baguettes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap the baguettes in foil and freeze. Reheat in an oven for best texture.

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Why make French Bread Baguettes?

You’re not just baking bread; you’re creating a centerpiece for meals and memories alike. Whether served alongside a hearty stew, used to make the ultimate sandwich, or enjoyed simply with a touch of butter, these baguettes promise to elevate your dining experience with their authentic taste and texture.

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