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Simple Homemade Crusty Bread

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A warm, golden loaf with a crisp outside and a soft, airy inside, perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 to 1 1/4 cups (240300 ml) warm water (start with less)
  • 2 tsp (7 g) instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for softer crumb)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add 1 cup warm water and olive oil if using. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add more water a little at a time until the dough comes together; it should be sticky but not puddly.
  3. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, until puffy and doubled.
  4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Fold it over a few times to shape into a round. Let it rest 20–30 minutes covered.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a heavy baking sheet or Dutch oven inside to heat. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife.
  6. If using a Dutch oven, transfer the loaf into the hot pot and bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered 10–15 minutes until deep golden. If using a baking sheet, sprinkle water into the oven to create steam and bake for 25–35 minutes until crusty.
  7. Cool on a rack at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

To refresh a stale or frozen loaf, sprinkle a little water on the crust and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–12 minutes.

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