Save A wonderfully crusty, airy artisan-style bread made with minimal effort and simple ingredients& perfect for beginners and bread enthusiasts alike.
This bread quickly became my go-to when I wanted fresh homemade bread without complicated steps.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- Dough: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) instant yeast
- Dough: 1 1/4 teaspoons (8 g) salt
- Dough: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) lukewarm water
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, and salt.
- Step 2:
- Add the lukewarm water and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for 12&18 hours, until the surface is dotted with bubbles and dough has doubled in size.
- Step 4:
- Lightly flour a work surface and turn the dough out onto it. With floured hands, fold the dough over on itself once or twice. Shape it loosely into a ball.
- Step 5:
- Place dough seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let rest for 30&60 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Step 6:
- Place a Dutch oven (or heavy lidded pot) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the dough with parchment paper and lower both into the pot. Cover with the lid.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30 minutes (lid on), then remove the lid and bake another 15 minutes, until golden brown and crusty.
- Step 9:
- Transfer bread to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.
Save My family enjoys breaking the crusty bread fresh out of the oven during cozy weekend breakfasts.
Notes
For added flavor, mix in herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise. For a chewier crust, spray the dough lightly with water before baking. Pairs excellently with soups, cheeses, or olive oil for dipping.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, wooden spoon or spatula, Dutch oven or heavy lidded pot, parchment paper, kitchen towel.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat). Vegan-friendly. Always check packaging for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Save This recipe delivers reliable, delicious homemade bread with minimal effort every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of flour works best for this bread?
All-purpose flour is ideal for balancing structure and softness, but bread flour can be used for a chewier crumb.
- → Why is a long resting time important?
The extended rest allows the dough to ferment slowly, developing richer flavors and a light, airy texture.
- → Can I add flavorings to the dough?
Yes, incorporating herbs, seeds, or roasted garlic before the first rise enhances aroma and taste without extra effort.
- → Why is the dough baked in a Dutch oven?
Baking in a preheated Dutch oven traps steam, helping form a crisp crust and a moist interior.
- → How should I store the baked loaf?
Keep the cooled loaf in an airtight container or paper bag at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.