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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Second Rise: Arrange the logs on a tray dusted with cornmeal or flour. Cover them and allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
7. 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.
8. Carve and Brush: Using a carving tool or a sharp knife, create slits on the surface of each baquette. Brush the tops with water.
9. Bake: Bake the baquettes in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Final Touch: For an extra shiny crust, brush the baked baquettes with melted butter immediately after taking them out of the oven.
11. 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!