Classic Artisan Bread

This Classic Artisan Bread is simple, rustic, and full of flavor with a crispy crust and soft, airy interior. Made with just flour, water, yeast, and salt, this no-knead method produces a bakery-style loaf perfect for sandwiches, soups, or just enjoying with butter.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Resting & Fermentation Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 1 loaf

Ingredients

• 280 g warm water
• 5 g fresh yeast (or 2 g dry yeast)
• 350 g wheat flour (bread flour preferred)
• 7 g salt

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and fresh yeast. Stir well until the yeast dissolves.

2. Mix the Dough

• Add wheat flour and salt to the bowl.
• Stir until all flour is absorbed and no dry spots remain.
• Let the dough rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.

3. Stretch and Fold

• Gently stretch the edges of the dough and fold them toward the center.
• Lift the dough and lightly pat to develop elasticity.
• Cover with plastic wrap and ferment in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

4. Shape the Dough

• Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough into a ball.
• Let it rest for 20 minutes.
• Shape into a long loaf or baguette-style.

5. Final Fermentation

• Cover and allow the dough to rise for 60 minutes before baking.

6. Bake the Bread

• Preheat the oven to 240°C (465°F).
• Bake covered for 15 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes for a golden crust.

7. Cool and Serve

• Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
• Enjoy fresh or toasted with butter, jam, or soup!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with butter and honey for breakfast.
• Use as a base for bruschetta.
• Pair with soups or stews.

Cooking Tips

• For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
• Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Let the dough ferment longer for a deeper flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• High in fiber and protein from whole wheat flour.
• Low in fat and sugar.
• Great source of complex carbohydrates.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian-friendly
• Vegan-friendly
• Dairy-free

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx.)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze slices for up to 3 months; reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients, no kneading required
• Soft, airy texture with a crispy crust
• Perfect for sandwiches, toasts, and dipping
• Easily customizable with herbs, seeds, or cheese

Conclusion
This Classic Artisan Bread is a delicious, easy-to-make loaf with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted, this homemade bread is a must-try for any baking lover. Try it today and enjoy bakery-style bread at home!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes! Use 2 g dry yeast instead of fresh.
• Can I make this bread gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free bread flour blend.
• What if I don’t have a lid for baking? Use foil to cover the bread.
• Can I add toppings? Yes! Seeds, cheese, or herbs work well.
• Can I make this bread in a Dutch oven? Yes! Bake covered for a better crust.
• Why is my bread too dense? It may need a longer fermentation.
• How do I get a more open crumb? Stretch and fold the dough more during fermentation.
• Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes! Replace up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat.
• What’s the best way to store fresh bread? Wrap in a towel or keep in a bread box.
• Can I double this recipe? Yes! Just double all ingredients and adjust baking time.