Homemade Baguette

This recipe came from Amy at The Fosted Bake Shop.  Amy said in her post that this was easy and turned out great.  I decided to give it a try.  She wasn't kidding this was the easiest and best bread ever!  I thought it looked like "real" bread that you get in the bakery section at the grocery store.  I love that I could make this after work and have it ready for dinner.  5 minutes to mix together, rise for 30 and bake for 15 - what's not to love?!?!  I won't be buying baguettes at the store anymore.  This was a huge hit!  I cut Amy's original recipe in half and only made one baguette. 

Baguette
(Printable Recipe)

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3/4 cups warm water
1 package dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1 tsp sugar
1 1/2 cups plus 2 Tbsp flour
1 tsp salt

In a small bowl mix the warm water with the yeast and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes - foam should form on the top.
In a large mixing bowl combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture. Mix in stand mixer with dough hook until the dough becomes a smooth ball - approximately 5 minutes.  Shape into baguette. Place on lightly greased cookie sheet (or silpat). Cover and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. With a serrated knife gently make a slash down the length of the baguette. This will give it that authentic look. Pour water in a cookie sheet and place it on the bottom rack of the oven. Bake the bread for 15 minutes. Half way through, brush the bread with melted butter.