This homemade rustic bread recipe is perfect for creating soft, golden loaves with a chewy interior and a glossy crust. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven with butter or using it for hearty sandwiches, this versatile bread will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 2 loaves
Ingredients
- Dry Yeast: 10 grams (1 packet)
- Warm Water: 200 ml (about 1 glass) for activating yeast + 400 ml additional
- All-Purpose Flour: 720 grams (6 cups) + 120 grams (1 cup) for initial mixing
- Salt: 10 grams (1 teaspoon)
- Egg Yolk: 1
- Milk: 1 tablespoon
Directions
Activate the Yeast
- In a large bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in 200 ml warm water (around 37°C or 98°F). Stir until the yeast is fully dissolved.
- Add 120 grams (1 cup) of flour to the yeast mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gather the dough into a ball, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Prepare the Dough
- After the initial rest, add the remaining 400 ml warm water to the dough and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the remaining 720 grams (6 cups) of flour and salt. Mix and knead for 3–4 minutes until the dough is soft and slightly non-sticky.
First Rise
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot.
- Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Shape the Dough
- Once risen, remove the air from the dough by gently pressing it down.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Shape each part into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Lightly flour a work surface and expand each ball into a rectangle using your fingers. Roll the rectangle inward to form a loaf shape.
Second Rise
- Place the shaped loaves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the loaves with a cloth and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
Bake the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush this mixture over the top of the loaves for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam for a delightful breakfast.
- Use for sandwiches or paninis with your favorite fillings.
- Pair with hearty soups or stews for a comforting meal.
- Slice and toast for a crunchy snack with garlic butter or cream cheese.
- Enjoy as a dipper with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a Mediterranean touch.
Cooking Tips
- Use warm (not hot) water for activating the yeast to ensure proper fermentation.
- Knead the dough just until smooth to avoid overworking it.
- For an extra crusty loaf, place a small pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
- Brush the loaves with olive oil instead of the egg wash for a softer crust.
- Add seeds or herbs to the dough for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Flour: Provides energy-boosting carbohydrates.
- Yeast: Contributes B vitamins and helps with digestion.
- Egg Yolk: Adds a rich, golden crust while providing protein and vitamins.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the milk in the egg wash or replace it with a non-dairy alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or bread box for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–10 minutes to restore freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Deliciously Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, sides, or dipping.
- Fresh and Homemade: Nothing beats the aroma and taste of fresh bread.
- Customizable: Add seeds, herbs, or whole grains for variety.
- Comfort Food: A warm, golden loaf is always a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
This homemade rustic bread recipe is a simple yet rewarding way to bring fresh-baked goodness to your table. The soft texture, golden crust, and versatile flavor make it perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced pro, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Bake it today and enjoy the timeless comfort of homemade bread!