Best French Baquette Recipe
A French baquette is a quintessential symbol of French cuisine – a crusty, golden loaf with a soft and airy interior.
Typically made from a simple blend of yeast, flour, salt, and water, this recipe incorporates a tablespoon of vegetable oil for an added touch of moistness.
This homemade baquette is perfect for those craving a bit of French flair in their meals.
Why You’ll Love This French Baquette Recipe
- Crusty Exterior: Achieve the iconic crunchy crust loved by many.
- Soft & Airy Inside: The interior remains soft and flavorful.
- Versatile: Ideal for sandwiches, or as a side to your favorite soup or salad.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients found in your pantry.
- Homemade Goodness: There’s a special joy in crafting homemade bread, and the flavor is unmatched!
Recommended Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: To mix all the ingredients together properly.
- Baking Tray: For baking the baquettes.
- Carving Tool or Sharp Knife: To make precise slits on the baquette before baking.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing water and butter on the baquettes.
- Oven: For baking the baquettes to perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tbsp Active Dry Yeast
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 1/2 cups Water
- Cornmeal (for dusting)
- Additional water for brushing
- Butter for brushing (optional, for a shiny crust)
How To Make French Baquette
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, sprinkle yeast over 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, measure and combine the flour and salt. Add in the oil, yeast mixture, and the remaining water. Mix all ingredients until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough: After the first rise, deflate the dough gently and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rectangle, then roll up from the shortest end into a log.
- Second Rise: Arrange the logs on a tray dusted with cornmeal or flour. Cover them and allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a pot of hot water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
- Carve and Brush: Using a carving tool or a sharp knife, create slits on the surface of each baquette. Brush the tops with water.
- Bake: Bake the baquettes in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Final Touch: For an extra shiny crust, brush the baked baquettes with melted butter immediately after taking them out of the oven.
- Serve: Allow the baquettes to cool slightly before serving.
Tips For The Best Baquette
- Use Quality Flour: Choose a high-quality all-purpose flour for the best results.
- Monitor Oven Temperature: Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature to avoid over or under-baking.
- Do Not Skip Steam: The steam in the oven is crucial for achieving a crispy crust; do not skip this step.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh and active to achieve a perfect rise.
- Shape Evenly: When shaping the dough, try to maintain an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
What To Serve With French Baquette
- Cheese: Serve with a variety of cheeses for a simple and elegant appetizer.
- Soup: A crispy baquette pairs wonderfully with a bowl of warm soup.
- Salads: Enjoy slices of baquette with a fresh and vibrant salad.
- Spreads: Jams, butter, and spreads complement the flavor and texture of the baquette.
- Dips: Serve alongside flavorful dips as a delicious snack or appetizer.
Relish the authentic, delightful taste of a homemade French baquette and elevate your meals with this quintessential French bread!
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.