These Crispy Mini Baguettes are easy to make and perfect for sandwiches or as a side for soups and salads. With a few simple ingredients, you can bake delicious, golden baguettes with a crisp exterior and a soft, airy interior. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve bakery-quality baguettes at home.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 50-60 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 200g flour
- 2g caster sugar
- 3g dehydrated baker’s yeast
- 2g salt
- 130ml lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions:
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 200g of flour, 2g of caster sugar, 3g of dehydrated baker’s yeast, and 2g of salt.
- Add Water and Mix:
- Slowly pour 130ml of lukewarm water into the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
- Let the Dough Rest:
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Add Olive Oil and Knead:
- After resting, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the dough.
- Knead the dough for 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Shape the Dough:
- Lightly oil your work surface, then continue to knead the dough, forming it into a ball.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 30 to 45 minutes until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Baguettes:
- After the dough has risen, divide it into smaller portions and shape each one into mini baguettes.
- Cover and let them rest for an additional 5 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (without the fan). Place an empty container in the oven to create steam later.
- Prepare the Baguettes for Baking:
- Make shallow notches on the top of each baguette and spray them lightly with water.
- Bake the Baguettes:
- Place the mini baguettes in the preheated oven.
- Pour hot water into the empty container to create steam, which helps to achieve a crispy crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Final Touch:
- Optionally, spray the oven with a little water during the baking process to enhance the crispiness of the crust.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once the baguettes are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with butter, cheese, or jam for breakfast.
- Use the mini baguettes to make sandwiches, or serve alongside soups and salads.
Cooking Tips:
- Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which will give the baguettes a better structure.
- If the crust isn’t crispy enough, leave the baguettes in the oven for a few extra minutes but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Flour provides carbohydrates for energy.
- Olive oil adds healthy fats.
- Yeast helps in digestion and contributes to the airy texture of the bread.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 3g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the mini baguettes in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the baguettes in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Quick: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make this a perfect bread recipe for beginners.
- Crispy and Delicious: The steam method ensures a golden, crunchy crust with a soft interior.
- Versatile: These mini baguettes can be enjoyed on their own or as part of various meals.
Conclusion:
These Crispy Mini Baguettes are a great addition to your baking repertoire, offering a perfect balance between a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can enjoy fresh, homemade baguettes that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Try this recipe for a quick and satisfying bread-making experience!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. - How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size during the rising time, which usually takes 30-45 minutes. - What if I don’t have a container to create steam in the oven?
You can place a shallow pan with water at the bottom of the oven to create steam. - Can I use fresh yeast instead of dehydrated yeast?
Yes, use about 9g of fresh yeast to replace 3g of dehydrated yeast. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight and bake the next day. - How do I get a crispier crust?
Adding steam during baking (by spraying water or using a water-filled container) will give a crispier crust. - How can I add flavor to the baguettes?
You can add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for extra flavor. - Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Yes, but the sugar helps to activate the yeast and improve the flavor slightly. - What is the purpose of scoring the baguettes?
Scoring allows the bread to expand evenly in the oven, preventing cracks. - How long should I knead the dough?
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.