How to Make French Baguettes at Home

Introduction

Baking French baguettes at home is a rewarding experience that results in delicious, crusty bread perfect for any meal. Follow these detailed steps to create authentic French baguettes in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 5 ¾ cups plain flour
• ½ teaspoon dried yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ⅕ cups water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Put the sifted plain flour in a mixing bowl. Add the dried yeast and mix well. Then add the salt and mix again.
2. Add Water: Pour in the water and mix everything thoroughly using the end of a wooden spoon to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. Initial Rise: Cover the bowl with foil and let the dough rise for 45 minutes.

Step 2: Fold and Rise

1. First Fold: Turn the dough out onto a work surface without using flour. If the dough is sticky, wet your hands instead. Roll and fold the dough several times using a spatula for assistance if needed. Return the dough to the bowl, cover, and let it rise for another 45 minutes.
2. Second Fold: Repeat the folding process and let the dough rise for an additional 45 minutes.
3. Third Fold: Repeat the folding process once more and let the dough rise for the fourth and final time.

Step 3: Shape the Baguettes

1. Prepare for Shaping: Dust a rolling pin with flour and tip the dough onto it. Dust the dough with flour as well.
2. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a smaller rectangular patty and roll it up with the seam down. Cover the rolls with foil and let them rise for 10 minutes.
3. Form Baguettes: Dust the work surface with flour again. Shape each roll into a rectangular patty, roll it up, press it down, and shape it into a baguette.

Step 4: Final Rise

1. Prepare the Proofing Cloth: Place the baguettes on a baking sheet lined with a heavily floured cotton cloth, such as a pillowcase or a high-quality tea towel. Make a fold in the fabric between each baguette to prevent them from sticking to each other.
2. Final Rise: Cover the baguettes with a tea towel and let them rise for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Baguettes

1. Preheat the Oven: After the final rise, preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and place a roasting pan with water at the bottom of the oven.
2. Transfer and Score: Let the baguettes rise for another 12 minutes while the oven heats up. Using cardboard wrapped in foil, transfer the baguettes to a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Spray them with water and make four slashes on each baguette with a sharp knife.
3. Bake: Place the baguettes in the oven and spray the inside of the oven with water before closing the door. Bake for 8 minutes, then turn the tray around and bake for another 7-8 minutes until the baguettes are golden brown.
4. Cool: Remove the baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Nutritional Information

Homemade French baguettes are a delicious addition to any meal. Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Vitamin A: 0% DV
• Vitamin C: 0% DV
• Calcium: 1% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

Conclusion

Enjoy the process of making these authentic French baguettes at home. With their crispy crust and soft interior, these baguettes are perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or enjoying with butter. Happy baking!