Why make this recipe
Making homemade crusty bread is a simple and rewarding experience. It fills your home with the delicious aroma of baking bread, and there’s nothing quite like tearing into a warm, crusty loaf fresh out of the oven. This recipe allows you to create a beautiful bread with minimal effort and just a few ingredients. You’ll impress your family and friends and enjoy the satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch.
How to make Homemade Crusty Bread
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 2 cups warm water
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
- After it rises, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
- Let the bread cool before slicing.
How to serve Homemade Crusty Bread
Homemade crusty bread is perfect on its own, served with butter, or used for sandwiches. You can also enjoy it alongside soups, stews, or salads. For a tasty treat, try spreading some garlic butter on warm slices for an extra flavor boost.
How to store Homemade Crusty Bread
To store your homemade bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in a paper bag. Keep it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to store it longer, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Just toast or warm the slices when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Tips to make Homemade Crusty Bread
- Ensure your water is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
- If your dough seems too sticky, you can lightly flour your hands while shaping it.
- Don’t rush the rising time; longer rising helps develop better flavor and texture.
Variation (if any)
You can add herbs, cheese, or whole grains to this basic crusty bread recipe for different flavors. For example, try adding chopped rosemary or shredded cheddar cheese for a twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using bread flour will give you a chewier texture because it has more protein.
2. What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
You can use any oven-safe pot with a lid, or bake the bread on a baking sheet. Just be mindful that it may not have the same crusty result.
3. How can I tell if my bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap the bottom of the loaf. You can also use a thermometer; it should read 200°F (93°C) when done.
Homemade Crusty Bread
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour You can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 2 cups warm water Ensure the water is warm but not hot.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for 12-18 hours at room temperature.
Baking
- After it rises, preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
- Let the bread cool before slicing.