Making artisan bread at home is easier than you think—no bread machine required! With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can achieve a bakery-quality loaf with a crispy crust and soft interior.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (450g) bread flour
- 1 ½ cups (350ml) warm water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp instant yeast
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Cover with a towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Knead & First Rise
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1.5–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Dough
Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it on a floured surface or parchment paper and cover loosely with a towel. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
4. Preheat the Oven & Bake
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place a Dutch oven or baking stone inside while it heats.
- Once hot, carefully place the dough inside, cover (if using a Dutch oven), and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
5. Cool & Enjoy
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps develop the perfect texture.
Tips for Success
- Use bread flour for better texture and chew.
- Steam helps create a crispy crust—place a pan of hot water in the oven if not using a Dutch oven.
- Be patient—slow fermentation improves flavor.
Now you’re ready to enjoy fresh, homemade artisan bread with minimal effort!