This is the first time I’ve incorporated steam into the baking process. I’m amazed by the outcome. If only I hadn’t left them in the oven too long… The bottoms are pretty dark. I hope it still tastes ok.

For the steam, I put a rimmed baking sheet on a rack in the highest position while the oven preheated. When the loaves were ready to go in the oven, I poured about a cup of hot water on the hot sheet. I also spritzed the oven walls with water with a misting spray bottle. I think I left the oven temperature too high after I put the bread in. Then I didn’t watch it as closely as I should have because the new HD TV was distracting me…

Also, next time I make baguettes I’ll try to slash them at a sharper angle.