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Homemade Crusty Mini Baguettes – Easy French Bread Recipe

Bake perfect crusty mini baguettes at home with this simple French bread recipe featuring a crisp crust and soft, airy interior.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 8 minutes
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Servings 4 mini baguettes
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1¼ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)

Optional Egg Wash

  • 1 arge egg (or brush with milk for an egg-free option)

Instructions
 

  • Activate the Yeast
    Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl.
    Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • Prepare the Dough
    Mix flour and salt in a large bowl.
    Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
    Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead
    Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface.
    Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, stretchy, and elastic.
  • First Rise
    Place dough in a greased bowl.
    Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  • Shape the Baguettes
    Punch down the dough.
    Divide into 4–6 equal pieces.
    Roll each into a 6-inch mini baguette.
  • Second Rise
    Cover shaped loaves with a cloth.
    Let rise 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 425°F (220°C).
  • Prepare for Baking
    Brush with egg wash if desired.
    Score each baguette with diagonal slashes.
  • Bake
    Place a pan of hot water in the oven for steam.
    Bake baguettes 15–18 minutes or until crisp and golden.
  • Cool
    Let cool on a wire rack before serving warm.

Notes

  • Serve fresh for best texture.
  • Use bread flour for extra chewiness.
  • Customize with herbs, cheese, or seeds.