Vegan Baguette Recipe: Easy, Crispy, and Delicious Bread

If you’ve ever bitten into a crusty, golden-brown baguette fresh from the oven, you know that nothing quite compares to the simple pleasure of artisan bread. Now imagine enjoying that same deliciousness with a vegan twist—no eggs, dairy, or animal products involved, just pure plant-based goodness!

Baking your own vegan baguette is not only rewarding but surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through creating a crispy crust with a soft, chewy interior that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or simply savoring with your favorite spread.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, from mixing the dough to baking that perfect loaf. Plus, I’ll share tips and variations to make this baguette uniquely yours.

Ready to impress your family and friends with homemade vegan bread? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan baguette recipe is crafted to be approachable and authentic, capturing the essence of traditional French bread without any animal-derived ingredients. Here’s why it stands out:

• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples like flour, yeast, salt, and water.
• Crunchy Crust & Soft Crumb: Achieve that signature baguette texture—crispy on the outside, airy and tender inside.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, bruschetta, or alongside your favorite soups and salads.
• Budget-Friendly: No need for special vegan substitutes; this bread is naturally plant-based.
• Customizable: Add herbs, seeds, or whole grains to tailor it to your taste.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups (440g) bread flour – bread flour gives the best gluten structure
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water – about 105°F (40°C) to activate yeast
• 2 tsp active dry yeast – for natural leavening
• 2 tsp salt – enhances flavor
• 1 tsp sugar or maple syrup – helps yeast bloom
• Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil for a softer crust

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or baguette pan
• Sharp knife or lame for scoring
• Cooling rack
• Spray bottle with water (for steam)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step confirms your yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook.
3. Combine wet and dry: Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Add olive oil if using. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or use a stand mixer on medium speed for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic but slightly tacky.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
6. Shape the baguettes: Gently deflate the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin baguette shape about 14 inches long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baguette pan.
7. Second rise: Cover the shaped baguettes loosely and let them rise for 45 minutes to an hour until puffy.
8. Preheat oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place an empty metal pan on the lower rack to create steam later.
9. Score the loaves: Using a sharp knife or lame, make 3-4 diagonal slashes across the top of each baguette. This allows steam to escape and helps the bread expand properly.
10. Create steam and bake: Place the baguettes on the middle rack. Pour a cup of hot water into the empty pan on the lower rack to create steam, then quickly close the oven door. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
11. Cool completely: Remove the baguettes and transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set fully.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra crispy crust, try baking the baguettes with steam in the oven—this method helps develop that iconic crust that crackles when you break it.”

• Flour types: Substitute up to ½ cup with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
• Herb infusion: Add 1 tbsp dried rosemary or thyme to the dry ingredients for an aromatic twist.
• Seeded baguettes: Roll the shaped loaves in sesame, poppy, or flax seeds before the second rise for added texture and nutrients.
• Overnight fermentation: After the first knead, refrigerate the dough overnight for deeper flavor development and convenience.
• Gluten-free option: For a gluten-free version, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves as this traditional baguette uses bread flour for structure.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan baguette pairs beautifully with a variety of meals and dips. Here are some ideas to enjoy your fresh bread:

• Slice and serve with a homemade vegan béchamel sauce alongside steamed veggies for a creamy, comforting dish.
• Use for hearty sandwiches stuffed with grilled vegetables, hummus, and fresh greens.
• Toast slices and top with smashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
• Serve warm with a bowl of low calorie vegetable soup for a light, nourishing lunch.
• Pair with a selection of vegan cheeses and olives for an elegant appetizer spread.

Conclusion

Baking a vegan baguette at home is a wonderful way to bring the heart of French baking into your kitchen, all while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle. This recipe balances ease and authenticity, delivering a loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

From the first rise to the final golden crust, you’ll find the process gratifying and the results utterly delicious.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite spread, homemade vegan baguette elevates every bite. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs, seeds, and different serving ideas to keep things exciting.

For more plant-based baking inspiration, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or try pairing this bread with creative dishes from our extensive vegan recipe collection. Happy baking!

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