Soft mini baguettes

Soft Mini Baguettes - A Delight to Cook at Home

Who doesn't love the fresh aroma of homemade bread? Soft mini baguettes are not only a culinary delight but also a true cooking experience that brings joy to every corner of your home. These baguettes are perfect to enjoy alongside a warm soup, as sandwiches with your favorite fillings, or simply with butter and jam.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Working time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 15 mini baguettes

Ingredients:

- 600 g white flour (choose a good quality flour for the best results)
- 200 ml sweet milk (preferably at room temperature)
- 200 ml sparkling mineral water (make sure it is carbonated to create a fluffy texture)
- 100 ml sunflower oil (you can also use olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 20 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast, but the freshness of the active yeast is irreplaceable)
- 1 teaspoon salt (do not use more, as salt can inhibit the action of the yeast)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the baguettes)
- Milk (for the brushing mixture)
- Oil (for greasing the tray)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the starter: In a small bowl, mix 20 g of fresh yeast with 50 ml of the 200 ml of sweet milk. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes active and increases in volume. This is the ideal time to ensure that the yeast is in good condition.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, place the 600 g of white flour, and in the center of the flour, add the yeast mixture. Then add the remaining milk (150 ml), sparkling mineral water, and salt. Start mixing with a spatula or a wooden spoon, bringing the flour from the edges to the center.

3. Incorporating the oil: Once the ingredients begin to come together, add the sunflower oil and continue mixing until you obtain an elastic and well-combined dough. It should be slightly sticky but not overly so.

4. First rising: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise for about 50 minutes in a warm place until it doubles in volume. This rising process is essential for achieving fluffy and airy baguettes.

5. Shaping the baguettes: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 15 equal portions. Shape each portion into a thin baguette, being careful not to let the air escape from the dough. Place the baguettes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and lightly oiled.

6. Second rising: Cover the baguettes again with a damp towel and let them rise for 30 minutes. This step will ensure a soft and fluffy texture.

7. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Before placing them in the oven, make slashes on the baguettes with a sharp knife – this will allow steam to escape and provide a beautiful crust.

8. Brushing: Mix the egg yolk with a little milk and use a pastry brush to glaze the baguettes. This detail will give them a golden color and an appetizing shine.

9. Baking: Bake the baguettes for 30 minutes or until they turn golden. Check if they are done by tapping them lightly on the bottom; a hollow sound indicates they are perfectly baked.

10. Cooling: After baking, remove the baguettes from the oven and place them in a clean towel to cool. This step helps maintain a soft texture.

Practical tips and tricks:

- Colder days: On colder days, you can place the dough in an off oven but preheated to 30-40°C to help it rise faster.
- Variations: You can add herbs, grated cheese, or olives to the dough to create baguettes with different flavors.
- Serving: These mini baguettes are delicious served warm, alongside a vegetable soup or as a base for sandwiches. You can try pairing them with a fresh salad or a cheese platter.

Nutritional benefits:
Mini baguettes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. White flour contains gluten, which helps develop the structure and texture of the bread. Sunflower oil brings healthy fats, while milk contributes protein and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast. Use about one-third of the amount (7 g).

- How can I store the baguettes?
The baguettes can be stored in a paper bag for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them and reheat them in the oven when you want to enjoy them.

- How to achieve a crispy crust?
You can place a tray of water in the oven during baking to create steam, which will help achieve a crispier crust.

These soft mini baguettes are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a party with friends. By making them at home, you not only enjoy a fresh product but also the satisfaction of putting your touch on every piece. So put on your apron and let’s enjoy cooking!

 Ingredients: 600 g all-purpose flour, 200 ml sweet milk, 200 ml sparkling water, 100 ml sunflower oil, 20 g fresh yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 egg yolk + milk for brushing, oil for the pan

 Tags:  minibaguettes bread buns