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Buy Now →This easy Homemade Artisan Bread recipe delivers a crusty, golden exterior and a soft, airy interior. With just a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, you can bake a loaf of fresh bread perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees bakery-style results at home.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Ingredients (Cups and Grams)
- Warm water: 375 ml (1½ cups)
- Sugar: ½ tablespoon (7 g)
- Dry yeast: 7 g (about 2¼ teaspoons)
- Flour: 500 g (4 cups), plus extra for dusting
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (6 g)
- Sunflower oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Directions
- Activate the Yeast
- In a bowl, combine 50 ml warm water, ½ tablespoon sugar, and 7 g dry yeast. Mix thoroughly and let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with 375 ml warm water. Gradually add 500 g sifted flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough
- Add sunflower oil and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is sticky.
- First Rise
- Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough
- Sprinkle a clean surface with flour. Stretch and fold the dough, then form it into a ball. Dust lightly with flour.
- Second Rise
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper and dust with flour. Place the dough in the pan, cover, and let it rise until doubled.
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Make Cuts and Bake
- Once risen, make slashes on the dough’s surface. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool the Bread
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.
- Serve with butter, jam, or olive oil for dipping.
- Use as a base for sandwiches or toast.
Cooking Tips
- Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water temperature is between 37-43°C (100-110°F) for activating the yeast.
- For a crispier crust, place a small tray of water in the oven while baking.
- Avoid over-flouring the dough, as it may become dense.
Nutritional Benefits
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Contains no artificial additives or preservatives.
- Provides carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-free.
- Can be made vegan by using plant-based oils.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx.)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
Storage
- Store at room temperature in a bread bag or airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze sliced bread in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before use.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to follow and beginner-friendly.
- Requires only basic pantry ingredients.
- Produces bakery-style bread at home.
- Versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
This Homemade Artisan Bread is the perfect addition to any table, offering a rustic touch with its golden crust and soft interior. The step-by-step process ensures that anyone can achieve beautiful results, whether you’re baking for your family or a special occasion. Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home and the satisfaction of making it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the activation step. - What if I don’t have sunflower oil?
You can substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil. - Why didn’t my dough rise?
Check the yeast’s expiration date and ensure the water wasn’t too hot or cold. - Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour and add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum. - How do I get a crispy crust?
Place a small tray of water in the oven during baking to create steam. - Can I add herbs or seeds?
Yes, mix in dried herbs or seeds like sesame or sunflower for added flavor and texture. - Can I knead the dough in a mixer?
Absolutely, use a dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 5 minutes. - How do I know when the bread is done?
Tap the bottom of the bread; it should sound hollow when done. - Can I bake this in a Dutch oven?
Yes, preheat the Dutch oven and bake with the lid on for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes. - What’s the best way to reheat the bread?
Wrap in foil and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 minutes.