🍋A Fresh Twist on Baguettes – Sourdough Meets Spring!🌿

🍋🌿Featured Recipe: Lemon & Thyme Spring Baguettes

Lemon and thyme are such a natural pairing—the citrusy zing of lemon cuts through the earthy, savory warmth of thyme, creating a balance that’s both refreshing and comforting. I wanted to bring those flavors into a crusty sourdough baguette, one that could be enjoyed plain, toasted, or paired with something as simple as butter or as luxurious as whipped ricotta.

I spent a few weekends testing, tweaking, and baking—adjusting the hydration, fermentation time, and balance of flavors until I found just the right combination. The result? A light, crisp baguette with a subtle citrus aroma and delicate herbal notes, perfect for spring meals.

➡️ Get the recipe here! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute dried thyme for fresh, but the flavor will be more concentrated. Use about one-third of the amount (e.g., if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use 1 teaspoon of dried). Rubbing the dried thyme between your fingers before adding it to the dough will help release its natural oils and enhance the flavor.

Can I add other herbs or spices? Rosemary, basil, or even a touch of lavender can complement the lemon and thyme beautifully. If you prefer a more complex flavor profile, try adding a pinch of black pepper or a hint of garlic. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate balance of citrus and herbs.

What if I don’t have a sourdough starter? If you don’t have a sourdough starter, you can make a yeasted version of these baguettes by using 1/8 teaspoon of instant yeast in the overnight levain and ½ teaspoon of instant yeast in the final dough. You will probably need to reduce the bulk fermentation time, as commercial yeast works much faster than sourdough. While you won’t get the same depth of flavor, the lemon and thyme will still shine in the final loaf.

 Click here for the full recipe ➡️

🧀 Whipped Lemon Ricotta & Herb Spread

This creamy, zesty ricotta spread pairs beautifully with warm slices of baguette and brings out the citrus notes in the bread.

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Optional: Drizzle of honey or chili flakes for a kick

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1️⃣ In a bowl, whisk or blend ricotta with olive oil until smooth.
2️⃣ Stir in lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Serve in a small dish, drizzled with honey or chili flakes.

🌟 Product Spotlight: Baguette Proofing Basket Set

If you’ve ever struggled with flat, uneven baguettes, you might enjoy these baguette proofing baskets. These proofing baskets, also known as bannetons, provide the perfect structure for proofing, ensuring that your dough holds its shape before baking.

Why Bakers Love this Set:

• Made in Vietnam from natural, eco-friendly rattan.

• Prevents spreading and keeps your baguettes uniform.

• Ideal for both yeasted and sourdough baguettes.

• Includes Recipe eBook – with baguette recipes created and tested to fit the baskets.

🗣️ “Love these banneton baskets. They are the perfect size for a nice sourdough baguette. And the liners make it an easy cleanup.” – Stacy M., Home baker

Ready to upgrade your baguette game? Check it out here!

📸 Share Your Spring Bakes with Us!

I’d love to see how your Sourdough Lemon & Thyme Baguettes turn out! Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, paired with the Whipped Lemon Ricotta & Herb Spread, or with your creative twist, I want to hear all about it!

📸 Snap a photo of your finished baguettes
📲 Tag @bread_experience on Instagram using #SpringBaguetteBake
💬 Tell me how you served it! Did you enjoy it with butter, cheese, or something new?

Your bakes might even be featured in a newsletter! 🌿🍋🥖

I can’t wait to see what you create! 😊✨