Freshly baked bread is one of life’s simple pleasures. The irresistible aroma of bread wafting through the house evokes warmth and comfort, and nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a crusty baguette. These Crusty Mini Baguettes offer the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. They’re ideal for everything from a cozy breakfast to a side for your favorite soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Golden Crust: These baguettes offer that classic bakery-style crunch that makes every bite a delight.

• Soft, Chewy Interior: Perfect for tearing apart and slathering with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

• No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need fancy tools—just a baking sheet and a little love.

• Quick Rise Time: You can have fresh baguettes in just over 2 hours.

• Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or dipping in soups.

• Fun to Shape: An enjoyable recipe to make, especially when involving the little ones in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)

• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

   • Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive. Start over with fresh yeast.

2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

   • Tip: Use a wooden spoon or your hands to bring the dough together.

3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   • Tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add a little flour if needed.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

   • Tip: A slightly warm oven (turned off) makes a great proofing environment.

5. Shape the Baguettes: Punch down the dough and divide it into 4–6 equal pieces. Shape each into a mini baguette about 6 inches long and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

   • Tip: Gently stretch and roll the dough for even loaves.

6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped baguettes loosely and let them rise for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

7. Add Egg Wash and Score: If using, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush it over the baguettes. Use a sharp knife to score each loaf with 2–3 diagonal slashes.

   • Tip: Scoring helps control how the bread expands in the oven.

8. Bake: Place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack (for steam). Bake the baguettes for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.

   • Tip: Tap the bottom of a loaf—it should sound hollow when fully baked.

9. Cool and Serve: Cool on a wire rack before serving to allow the crust to firm up perfectly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 mini baguettes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 18 minutes

• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 8 minutes

Storage/Reheating

These mini baguettes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for up to 2 days in a bread bag or wrapped in a towel. To re-crisp, place them in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Yes, you can skip the proofing step and mix instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

Lightly grease your baking sheet or use a silicone baking mat instead.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! After the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Why are my baguettes flat?

This could be due to over-proofing or under-kneading. Follow the rise times carefully for best results.

How do I make them more rustic-looking?

Dust the tops with a little flour before baking and avoid over-handling the dough.

Can I make a full-size baguette with this recipe?

Absolutely! Just shape the dough into 2 longer loaves and adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes.

Can I add herbs to the dough?

Yes! For extra flavor, try adding rosemary, thyme, or your favorite herbs to the dough.

Why do I need to add a pan of water in the oven?

The steam helps create that crisp, bakery-style crust.

Can I use melted butter instead of olive oil?

Yes, melted butter will give the baguettes a richer flavor.

What should I do if the dough feels too sticky?

Add a little more flour until the dough is soft but not sticky to the touch.

Conclusion

These Crusty Mini Baguettes are a delightful addition to your homemade bread repertoire. They’re easy to make, with a satisfying crunch and soft interior, perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or simply enjoying with butter. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have bakery-quality bread right at home. Happy baking!

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