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