There’s something undeniably magical about pulling a freshly baked baguette from your own oven — the thin, crackly crust, the soft and chewy interior, and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s the kind of bread that makes you want to tear off a piece before it even cools.
While traditional French baguettes have a reputation for being tricky, this homemade baguette recipe simplifies the process without losing authenticity. With just a few pantry staples, some patience, and a bit of love, you can create bakery-quality baguettes right at home.
Whether you’re serving them with soup, making sandwiches, or simply spreading on some butter and sea salt, these loaves are a guaranteed hit every time.
🥖 Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- Cornmeal or flour, for dusting
🌾 The Art of the Baguette
This recipe follows the essence of traditional French technique — slow fermentation, gentle shaping, and a hot, steamy bake for that signature crust. While it’s not difficult, it does take time. Start the dough the day before you want to enjoy fresh bread for the best flavor.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
Shape into a ball, place in a greased bowl, and cover. Let it rise until doubled, about 1–1½ hours.
Step 2: Cold Fermentation (Optional but Recommended)
For deeper flavor and a chewier texture, refrigerate the dough overnight (8–12 hours).
This slow fermentation develops complex, bakery-style flavor and improves the crust.
If you’re short on time, you can skip this step — but the difference is worth it.
Step 3: Shape the Baguettes
Let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Divide it into two or three equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a rectangle, then fold the sides in toward the center like a letter. Pinch the seam closed and roll it into a long rope (about 12–14 inches), tapering the ends slightly.
Place the loaves seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal or flour. Cover and let them rise for 45–60 minutes until puffy.
Step 4: Score and Bake
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a metal pan or cast iron skillet on the bottom rack to heat — you’ll use it to create steam.
Using a sharp knife or bread lame, make 3–4 diagonal slashes on each loaf.
Pour 1 cup of hot water into the heated pan just before baking to create steam, then quickly close the oven door.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
The baguettes should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing (if you can wait!).
💨 Why Steam Matters
Steam is the secret to that perfect baguette crust. It keeps the dough surface moist during the first few minutes of baking, allowing the bread to expand before the crust sets. The result is a beautifully crisp exterior with a soft, airy crumb inside.
🌿 Make It Your Own
This classic baguette recipe is endlessly versatile. Try:
- Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme
- Mixing in roasted garlic or olives for a savory twist
- Replacing part of the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor
No baguette pan? No problem. Shape freeform loaves on a baking stone, or support them with rolled-up kitchen towels wrapped in parchment.
🍽️ What to Serve With Homemade Baguettes
Fresh baguettes pair beautifully with just about everything:
- Serve slices with a cheese board or soup
- Make garlic bread or crostini
- Use leftovers for croutons or French toast
- Build sandwiches like caprese, ham and brie, or turkey and avocado
🥖 Homemade Baguette Recipe (Summary)
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 3 baguettes
In short: This easy homemade baguette recipe brings French bakery quality right into your kitchen — no fancy equipment required. With a perfectly crisp crust and soft, chewy center, these loaves will quickly become your new favorite bake.