Toaster Oven Baguettes

1. 1

   In a large bowl sprinkle yeast and sugar over warm water and let stand until foamy, roughly 5 minutes.

2. 2

   Stir in the bread flour until combined. Stir in salt and remaining flour until it forms a stiff dough.

3. 3

   On a lightly floured surface knead the dough for 7 - 8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Form into a ball.

4. 4

   Place the dough into a lightly oiled (I always use olive oil) bowl, turning to coat with oil to let rise. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store in a warm place until doubled in size, about an hour.

5. 5

   Punch down dough and form into a long slender loaf about 9 inches long.

6. 6

   Put loaf diagonally on a lightly greased large or 12 x 12-inch baking sheet and let rise, uncovered, about 30 minutes in the toaster oven.

7. 7

   Remove the baguette and set aside; preheat oven to 450u00b0 (American). While the toaster oven is heating make 3 diagonal slashes on the loaf with a sharp knife then lightly brush the entire top of the loaf with cool water.

8. 8

   Bake the loaf in the middle of the oven for 20 - 23 minutes, or until golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. Transfer to a rack to cool.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.