A French Baguette is a long, narrow loaf of bread, approximately 24-36 inches in length and 3-5 inches in diameter. The loaf is prepared using a white flour bread recipe, that is shaped into the slender loaf, allowing for the maximum amount of dough to be exposed to the heat of the oven.http://www.bread-maker.net/Bread-Types/French-bread.htmhttp://dictionary.reference.com/browse/baguetteThe word “baguette” derives from the 18th century French word “bacchetta” meaning little stick.http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/baguette

Traditionally, French baguettes are prepared using a simple white bread recipe, combining white flour, yeast, and water. The dough is shaped into a long, thin loaf, allowed to rest for an extended period of time, then baked for approximately 25 minutes at 450 degrees Farenheit.http://www.famousfrenchdesserts.com/french-bread-baguette-recipes.html Although the recipe for a traditional French baguette is simple, there are a number of additions can be made to the dough and bread crust, including spices, nuts, cheeses, and grains.

The history of the French Baguette dates back to 19th century Vienna. As baking techniques and technology developed, steam ovens became available, and bakers were able to prepare loafs of bread that had a crisp, crusty outer texture, and a softer inside. These loafs were prepared using a Straight or Sponge-Dough technique, using a low pressure steam to cook the dough. In 1920, a law was enacted that prohibited bakers from working before 4am in the morning, preventing them from being able to prepare the larger loafs of bread in time enough to open their bakeries. The development of the baguette was a direct consequence of this new law, as it allowed for the French loafs to be prepared within the times constraints set. Because of their smaller, thinner size, the baguette could be prepared just as its larger counterpart, but in a much shorter amount of time.http://www.bread-maker.net/Bread-Types/French-bread.htmhttp://www.foodtimeline.org/foodbreads.html

A basic French baguette will use a white flour bread dough in its recipe, but there are a number of recipe variations available, so that the baguette can be prepared to suit a variety of tastes. More popular baguette recipes include whole wheat and whole grain, sourdough, cheese, garlic, and cinnamon raisin.http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/the-baguette-recipe/index.htmlhttp://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/baguettes-recipe Most of the recipe versions follow similar steps as the traditional baguette, with some additional or alternative ingredients added.