Ina Garten Baguette Bread Recipe

The Ina Garten Baguette Bread Recipe is crusty, golden and soft inside. This classic French bread is perfect for sandwiches, soups or snacks.

It uses simple ingredients like flour, yeast, water and salt. I love how the dough comes together easily, even for home bakers. If you want to learn how to make Ina Garten Baguette Bread, this guide will help.

The ingredients for Ina Garten Baguette Bread are easy to find in any grocery store. Baking this bread at home is fun and rewarding.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made this bread for a weekend brunch. I wanted fresh bread without buying from a bakery. The baguettes turned out golden and crunchy.

The inside was soft and airy. The smell filled my kitchen and made everyone hungry. My family loved them with butter and jam.

Since then, I bake this baguette bread often. It is simple, impressive and always delicious.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Baguette Bread Recipe
• Servings: 4 baguettes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus rising time)
• Course: Bread / Side
• Cuisine: French
• Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or bread lame
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Baguette Bread

• All-purpose flour – 4 cups
• Instant yeast – 2 ¼ teaspoons
• Warm water – 1 ½ cups
• Salt – 2 teaspoons
• Sugar – 1 teaspoon
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for brushing)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Mix the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar and yeast. Stir gently. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, add flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops gluten for a chewy texture.

4. First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel. Let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Baguettes

Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Second Rise

Cover shaped baguettes with a towel. Let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

7. Score the Loaves

Use a sharp knife to make 3 diagonal cuts on each loaf. This helps bread expand evenly while baking.

8. Bake the Bread

Place baking sheet in oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Optional: Brush with olive oil halfway through for extra shine.

9. Cool Before Slicing

Remove bread from oven. Let cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes. Slice carefully and serve warm.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Baguette Bread

• Use warm water, not hot, to activate yeast
• Knead dough until smooth and elastic
• Let the dough rise fully for soft bread
• Score the top to prevent cracking
• Brush with olive oil for shine and flavor

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using water that is too hot, killing yeast
• Not kneading enough, making dense bread
• Skipping the second rise, causing flat loaves
• Cutting too deep or shallow when scoring
• Baking at low temperature, making bread pale

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ina Garten Baguette Bread with butter, jam or cheese. It pairs beautifully with soups, stews or salads.

Use slices for sandwiches or crostini. Fresh from the oven, it makes breakfast, lunch or dinner extra special.

Variations You Can Try

• Add garlic powder for a garlic baguette
• Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top
• Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme
• Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option
• Brush with butter instead of olive oil for soft crust

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in a paper bag at room temperature for 1–2 days
• Wrap in foil for longer freshness, up to 3 days
• Freeze cooled baguettes in plastic wrap for 1 month
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes
• Avoid microwaving; it makes bread chewy

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180 kcal
Fat	1 g
Protein	6 g
Carbs	36 g
Sodium	210 mg

Health Benefits

This baguette bread recipe provides complex carbohydrates for energy. Homemade bread avoids preservatives and additives found in store-bought bread.

Using olive oil adds healthy fats. Whole wheat variations increase fiber and nutrients. Baking at home also allows control over ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs about Ina Garten Baguette Bread Recipe

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, prepare dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for soft, warm baguettes.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour gives chewier texture and better gluten development. It works very well for classic baguettes.

How long will the bread stay fresh?
Fresh baguettes are best eaten within 1–2 days. Freeze for longer storage and reheat in the oven.

Can I make smaller or larger baguettes?
Yes, adjust dough pieces for desired loaf size. Smaller loaves bake faster, larger ones need extra time.

Can I add herbs or seeds?
Absolutely. Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds or herbs on top before baking for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Baguette Bread Recipe is classic, simple and delicious. It uses easy ingredients and produces golden, crusty bread.

Once you learn how to make Ina Garten Baguette Bread, you can enjoy fresh bakery-style bread at home anytime.

The ingredients for Ina Garten Baguette Bread are simple and the results are impressive. Try this recipe today and enjoy warm, soft and crusty baguettes with your meals.