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Crusty Artisan Bread

A delightful homemade loaf known for its crispy exterior and soft, airy interior, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour Bread flour creates a chewier texture.
  • ½ tablespoon kosher salt
  • ¼ ounce instant or active dry yeast packet (or 2 ¼ teaspoons) Ensure yeast is fresh for best results.
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F) Water should be warm but not too hot.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
  2. Pour the warm water over these dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  3. The dough will feel sticky but should be manageable.
Let the Dough Rise
  1. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 2 to 10 hours.
  2. If possible, let it rise overnight to enhance the flavor.
Shape the Bread
  1. Wet your hands and turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
  2. Gently fold the edges of the dough into the center to form a round loaf.
  3. Alternatively, divide the dough into two smaller loaves.
Prepare for Baking
  1. Place the shaped dough on parchment paper, dust with flour, and score 1 to 4 lines with a bread knife.
  2. Let the dough rest for 20 to 30 minutes while preheating your oven.
Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F with a baking stone, pizza stone, Dutch oven, or iron skillet inside.
Bake the Bread
  1. Slide the dough on the parchment paper onto the hot surface in the oven.
  2. Add 1 cup of hot water or 5 ice cubes to the bottom of the oven to create steam.
  3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the loaf is golden brown and crusty.
Cool and Slice
  1. Remove the bread from the oven and cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

To store your bread, place it in a paper bag. For reheating, place it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.