Why are French baguettes such a delight? Of course, it is a soft French flour, which creates a beautiful airy crumb and thin crust.
However, is it possible to make a superior taste baguette at home? Especially these cold fall days when the temperature in your kitchen is low? Follow this recipe, and you will end up with beautiful baguettes!
For three baguettes, you will need:
– 3 1/3 cups strong white bread flour
– 1 1/2 whey (any temperature)
– 1 tsp instant yeast
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
Add dry ingredients to a stand mixer or food processor bowl. Slowly pour in the whey. Combine all ingredients very quickly, just until they make a ball. You may need less whey or more flour because cup measuring is not precise. Knead the dough lightly. Let it rest for an hour and a half. It may take more time, depending on the temperature in your kitchen. It might not double in size, do not worry, it will rise later. Divide the dough into three equal parts and shape each part into a baguette by rolling and pinching. Press the edge to seal and roll it out to the desired length. Let them second rise for 45-90 min.
Score the baguettes right before placing them into preheated to at least 450 or 500 F oven. Arrange the steam in the oven for the first 7-9 minutes of baking. Bake for about 10 min more at 400-425 F. Serve them warm from the oven or cool them on a rack. Better to consume baguettes on the day of baking. They are tasty with just butter or put your favorite filling inside. Enjoy!