King Arthur Baguette Recipe: Bake Like a Parisian Pro

Ready to bring a slice of Paris into your kitchen? This King Arthur Baguette recipe is your ticket to baking bliss, offering that perfect crust and fluffy interior we all crave.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Uses King Arthur flour for consistent, high-quality results every time.
  • Simple ingredients let the natural flavors shine through.
  • Step-by-step instructions ensure even beginners can achieve bakery-quality bread.
  • The perfect balance of crusty exterior and soft, airy interior.
  • Customizable with various add-ins for a personal touch.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups King Arthur bread flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups water, lukewarm
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking stone or sheet
  • Razor or sharp knife for slashing
  • Kitchen scale (optional but recommended)

Instructions

King Arthur Baguette Recipe

Mix the Dough

Combine the flour, salt, water, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Tip: Letting the dough rest for 20 minutes before kneading makes it easier to handle.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pass the windowpane test.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Tip: A warm, draft-free spot speeds up the process.

Shape the Baguettes

Divide the dough into two pieces. Roll each into a long, thin baguette shape. Place on a floured couche or towel, seam side down.

Final Rise

Let the shaped baguettes rise until puffy, about 45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 475°F with a baking stone inside during the last 20 minutes.

Bake

Slash the tops of the baguettes with a razor. Transfer to the baking stone and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Spritzing the oven with water creates steam for a crispier crust.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate their baguette game, consider these advanced tips. First, using a kitchen scale for ingredients ensures precision. Second, experimenting with different flours can add unique flavors and textures. Third, allowing the dough to cold ferment in the fridge overnight develops deeper flavors. Lastly, mastering the slash technique not only looks professional but also controls the bread’s expansion in the oven.

Recipe Variations

  • Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
  • Incorporate cheeses such as parmesan or cheddar for a savory bite.
  • Mix in olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
  • Use whole wheat flour for a healthier, nuttier version.
  • Create a sourdough version by substituting the yeast with active sourdough starter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. This actually enhances the flavor. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Why didn’t my baguettes get a crispy crust? The key is steam in the oven. Try spritzing water into the oven or placing a pan of water on the bottom rack during baking.

Can I freeze the baked baguettes? Yes, once cooled, wrap them tightly and freeze. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to revive the crust.

Summary

This King Arthur Baguette recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy homemade French bread. With simple ingredients, detailed steps, and plenty of room for creativity, you’re all set to bake like a pro.

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