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Crusty Mini Baguettes

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Crusty Mini Baguettes are a delightful, homemade version of the classic French baguette, but in a more compact size. With their golden, crispy crust and soft, airy interior, these mini baguettes are perfect for sandwiches, serving alongside soup, or enjoying with a pat of butter. Baking your own baguettes at home gives you the satisfaction of creating a bakery-worthy loaf with just a few simple ingredients. These crusty mini baguettes are easy to make and will elevate any meal!

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)

1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  3. Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough using the dough hook attachment for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly oil the bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Mini Baguettes: Punch the dough down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long, slender baguette shape (about 8-10 inches long). Place the shaped baguettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one. Sprinkle a little cornmeal under the dough to prevent sticking, if desired.
  6. Let the Baguettes Rise Again: Cover the shaped baguettes with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
  7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place an empty baking pan or tray on the bottom rack of the oven (this will create steam while baking, which helps create a crispy crust).
  8. Score the Baguettes: Just before baking, use a sharp knife or razor blade to make a few diagonal slashes (about 3-4) on the top of each baguette. This helps the bread expand as it bakes and gives it that signature baguette look.
  9. Bake the Mini Baguettes: Place the baking sheet with the baguettes in the preheated oven. Immediately pour about 1 cup of hot water into the empty pan or tray in the bottom of the oven to create steam. Bake the baguettes for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crisp.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove the mini baguettes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Herbed Baguettes: Add a tablespoon of fresh or dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for added flavor.

Cheese Baguettes: Fold in some grated Parmesan or other cheese into the dough for a cheesy twist.

Whole Wheat Baguettes: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor and texture.

Garlic Baguettes: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder or roasted garlic into the dough for a savory, aromatic touch.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/crusty-mini-baguettes/