Artisan Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, then this Artisan Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. With just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a crusty, golden loaf that boasts a tender, chewy crumb inside. This recipe brings the magic of traditional bread baking into your own home, transforming flour, salt, yeast, and water into something truly extraordinary that delights every sense.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right for this Artisan Bread Recipe is both simple and essential. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and appearance.

• 3 cups (395 grams) all-purpose or bread flour: Provides structure and the chewy texture that defines artisan bread.
• ½ tablespoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity for a well-balanced taste.
• ¼ ounce instant or active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): The magical leavening agent that makes the dough rise beautifully.
• 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F): Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast for a perfect, sticky dough.

How to Make Artisan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

This starts the process by mixing the flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. The dry ingredients need to be evenly distributed to ensure uniform flavor and consistent rising.

Step 2: Add Warm Water and Mix Dough

Pour the warm water over your dry mix, and stir until everything comes together into a sticky yet manageable dough. The warmth of the water wakes up the yeast and helps develop gluten, which gives bread its wonderful texture.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let your dough rest at room temperature. This slow fermentation time, anywhere from 2 to 10 hours or even overnight, allows complex flavors to develop, turning your bread into something special.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Once risen, wet your hands to prevent sticking and gently fold the dough’s edges towards the center, creating a rounded loaf shape. You can also split the dough in two for smaller loaves, tucking the ends underneath for a neater finish.

Step 5: Prepare for Final Rise

Set the shaped dough on parchment paper, dust lightly with flour, and score 1 to 4 lines across the surface. This step not only adds a beautiful artisan look but also helps control the loaf’s expansion during baking. Let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes before baking.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F with a baking stone, pizza stone, Dutch oven, or an iron skillet inside. A hot surface is key to achieving that signature artisan crust.

Step 7: Bake with Steam

Slide the dough, still on the parchment, onto your hot surface. Add a cup of hot water or 5 ice cubes to the oven’s bottom to create steam. This moisture helps form the deeply crusty exterior that makes artisan bread so irresistible.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes, until it develops a deep, golden-brown color and crispness. The aroma at this point is absolutely enchanting!

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your bread to cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes to let the crumb set fully. Slicing too early can lead to a gummy texture inside—worth the wait every time!

Step 10: Store Properly

Keep your incredible loaf fresh by storing it in a paper bag, which helps maintain the crust’s crispness while preventing it from becoming too dry.

How to Serve Artisan Bread Recipe

Garnishes

While this Artisan Bread Recipe stands fantastic on its own, pairing it with simple garnishes like a smear of good-quality butter, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate its flavors even further.

Side Dishes

Artisan bread makes an excellent companion to soups, stews, and hearty salads. Its sturdy texture is perfect for dipping into rich tomato bisque or soaking up the juices from a savory braise.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your bread into an impressive centerpiece by turning it into crostini topped with fresh herbs and cheeses, or slice it thickly for rustic sandwiches filled with creamy spreads or charcuterie. The possibilities are endless and endlessly delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To preserve that beautiful crust and fluffy interior, store any leftover artisan bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid plastic bags as they can trap moisture and soften the crust.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your Artisan Bread Recipe later, slice it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to three months. This keeps the bread fresh and ready for whenever you’re craving it.

Reheating

To revive the bread’s crust and warmth, pop frozen or leftover slices into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This simple step brings your loaf back to life, almost as good as fresh!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour in this Artisan Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and denser texture. Just keep in mind it may require a bit more water due to the bran content.

Do I have to use a baking stone or Dutch oven?

While these tools help achieve an ideal crust, you can bake on a preheated heavy baking sheet or cast iron skillet. The key is a hot, evenly heated surface and steam in the oven.

What if my dough doesn’t rise much?

Make sure your water isn’t too hot or too cold when activating the yeast, ideally around 105°F. Also, check that your yeast is fresh and has not expired for the best rise.

Can I add herbs or other flavorings to the dough?

Definitely! Adding fresh herbs, garlic, or even olives can personalize this Artisan Bread Recipe. Just fold them in gently during mixing to distribute evenly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Look for a deep golden-brown crust and a hollow sound when tapping the loaf’s bottom. Internal temperature should be around 200°F for a perfectly baked bread.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly rewarding about baking your own bread, and this Artisan Bread Recipe makes it easy and approachable for everyone. With just a little time and simple ingredients, you can create a stunning loaf that’s full of character and flavor. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly this humble recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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