Artisan Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Artisan Bread is a rustic, crusty loaf with a chewy interior and rich, complex flavor that comes from a slow fermentation process. It’s simple to make with just a few ingredients, yet yields bakery-quality results at home. Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside soups and stews, this bread is a true staple for any home baker.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bread flouractive dry yeastwarm watersalt

directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.

Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours until bubbly and doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat for 30 minutes.

Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and shape it into a ball. Let it rest while the oven finishes preheating.

Carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.

Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields one loaf (about 8–10 slices).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 12–18 hours
Baking time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: ~13 hours (mostly inactive)

Variations

Add chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for aromatic flavor.

Incorporate roasted garlic or olives for a savory twist.

Use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Dust with cornmeal for a rustic crust.

storage/reheating

Store at room temperature in a bread bag or wrapped in a towel for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes.
Freeze the loaf for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour?

Yes, though bread flour gives better structure and chew.

Do I need a Dutch oven?

It helps create a crispy crust, but you can use any oven-safe pot with a lid.

Can I speed up the rise?

Yes, but the flavor is best with a long fermentation. Try 4-6 hours in a warm spot if needed.

Why is my dough so sticky?

That’s normal. Artisan bread dough is meant to be wet and sticky.

Can I add seeds or nuts?

Absolutely—fold them into the dough during shaping.

How do I know it’s done baking?

The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your Dutch oven is large enough.

Why is my crust too hard?

Try wrapping the bread in a towel as it cools to soften the crust slightly.

Do I need to knead the dough?

No kneading required—just mix and rest.

Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Very! It’s a great introduction to artisan-style bread baking.

Conclusion

Artisan Bread brings the joy of homemade baking with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its golden crust and tender crumb make it a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this no-fuss recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

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