Fresh Baguette with Beurre and Jam Recipe

There is something so irresistibly charming about a warm, freshly baked French baguette. It conjures up images of cozy mornings in a sun-dappled Parisian kitchen, filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread. At Zynahz, we believe that food is not just about nourishment but also about creating moments of pure joy with your family. Our Fresh Baguette with Beurre and Jam is the perfect recipe for a memorable family breakfast or a special treat on a lazy weekend morning. It’s simple, yet elegant – a classic that celebrates the beauty of uncomplicated, delicious food.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours for rising)

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Servings: 2 baguettes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Butter (to serve)
• A selection of your favorite jams (to serve)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Shape each part into a long, thin baguette.
6. Place the baguettes on a floured baking sheet and cover them with a damp cloth. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Just before baking, slash each baguette with a sharp knife three times. This helps control the direction of the rise and creates the classic baguette look.
8. Bake the baguettes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Allow the baguettes to cool slightly before slicing. Serve with creamy butter and a selection of your favorite jams.

Helpful Tips

• If you’re a beginner, don’t worry too much about making the perfect shape. The beauty of homemade baguettes is in their rustic charm.
• You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
• Adding a small bowl of water in the oven while baking the baguettes can create steam, resulting in a crispier crust.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover baguette in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap the baguettes in plastic wrap and freeze them. Thaw and warm in the oven before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but remember to add a bit more water as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.

Pairings

This Fresh Baguette with Beurre and Jam pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more elaborate breakfast, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit and a variety of cheeses.

At Zynahz, we strive to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, making every meal a special occasion. We invite you to try this delightful Fresh Baguette with Beurre and Jam Recipe and share your results with us. Gather your loved ones, enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade goodness, and don’t forget to explore more recipes on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired! Happy cooking!