Description
This bakery-style bread recipe creates a crusty artisan loaf with a chewy interior and rich, complex flavor—just like what you’d find in a bakery. With simple ingredients and no kneading required, this is the perfect recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers craving that golden, rustic loaf at home.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups warm water (about 100°F/38°C)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- Optional: cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy (skip this step if using instant yeast).
- Stir in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel.
- Let the dough rise at room temperature for 8–18 hours until bubbly and doubled.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface. Shape it into a ball gently. Let rest for 30–60 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
- Carefully place dough into the hot Dutch oven (on parchment or dusted with cornmeal). Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and crusty.
- Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For a flavor boost, add garlic, rosemary, or shredded cheese to the dough.
- Use part whole wheat flour for a denser, nuttier version.
- For a seeded crust, roll the dough in sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds before baking.
- To speed up the rise, place dough in a warm spot for 3–4 hours.
