How To Bake A French Baguette With A Cookie Sheet

How to Bake a Delicious French Baguette Using a Cookie Sheet

French baguettes are a classic and beloved bread that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. While traditionally baked in a baguette pan, it is possible to achieve a delicious result using a cookie sheet. With the right technique and a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade French baguette that is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• Cornmeal (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Baguette: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a long baguette by rolling and stretching the dough.
6. Second Rise: Place the shaped baguette on a cookie sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven: While the baguette is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
8. Score the Baguette: Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal cuts on the surface of the baguette to allow for expansion during baking.
9. Bake: Place the cookie sheet with the baguette in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the baguette is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, transfer the baguette to a wire rack to cool. Slice and enjoy with your favorite spreads or use it to make sandwiches.

Baking a French baguette with a cookie sheet is a rewarding process that yields a delicious and impressive result. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at bread-making for the first time, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the aroma of freshly baked bread as you master the art of making a French baguette with a cookie sheet.