Hello, Lykkers! Ever wondered how you can make a crunchy, golden baguette right in the comfort of your own kitchen?

It may seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple ingredients and some careful steps, we can turn that dream into a reality. Let’s dive into the magic of homemade baguettes!

Ingredients

To make a classic French baguette, you will need just a handful of simple ingredients:

1. 500 grams of bread flour (strong white flour)

2. 325 ml of lukewarm water

3. 10 grams of salt

4. 7 grams of instant yeast (or 10 grams of active dry yeast)

5. Extra flour for dusting

Production Steps: How to Make a Baguette at Home

The key to a great baguette lies in patience and technique. Follow these detailed steps for best results:

1. Mix the Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. If using active dry yeast, first dissolve it in a small amount of the lukewarm water and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy before adding it to the flour. Gradually pour in the water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough comes together. The dough will be sticky at first, but that’s perfectly normal.

2. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured surface. Knead it for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it without tearing, a good sign that the gluten has developed. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook, kneading on medium speed for around 8-10 minutes.

3. First Rise

Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to work its magic, giving the dough that light, airy structure.

4. Shape the Baguettes

After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and divide it into 3 or 4 equal portions, depending on how large you want your baguettes. On a floured surface, shape each portion into a rough rectangle. Fold the long edges toward the center, press to seal, and roll it into a long, thin baguette shape. Try to make the ends slightly tapered for that authentic look.

5. Second Rise

Place the shaped baguettes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough space between them for expansion. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for about 45 minutes. This second rise ensures the baguettes become light and airy inside.

6. Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). To achieve that signature crispy crust, we’ll need steam in the oven. Place a baking tray or oven-safe dish filled with water on the bottom rack while the oven is preheating. The steam will help develop the perfect crust on your baguettes.

7. Score and Bake

Right before baking, use a sharp tool or razor blade to make 3 or 4 diagonal slashes on the top of each baguette. This allows steam to escape and helps the bread expand properly. Place the baguettes in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and have a hollow sound when tapped.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, transfer the baguettes to a cooling rack. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing, as this allows the structure to set. Now you have fresh, homemade baguettes, ready to enjoy with butter, jam, or any topping you desire!

How to Save Your Baguettes

To keep your baguettes fresh, follow these simple steps:

1. Short-Term Storage

If you plan to eat the baguette within 1-2 days, you can simply wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag. Avoid using plastic, as this can trap moisture and make the crust soft.

2. Long-Term Storage

For longer storage, freeze the baguette. Once it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a zip lock bag, removing as much air as possible. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread at room temperature and then refresh it in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5-10 minutes to regain that crispy crust.

Now that you know how to make and store baguettes, why not give it a try this weekend? Your kitchen will smell amazing, and we’re sure you’ll impress your family and friends with your homemade bread skills!