The BEST Crusty Bread
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Recipe Intro From ashleylamego
This Crusty Bread recipe is beginner-friendly, requires no kneading, and delivers a crackly crust with a soft, airy interior—perfect for soups, sandwiches, or slathering with butter. Made with just four pantry staples, this rustic bread comes together with minimal effort and bakes to golden perfection in a Dutch oven. The result? Artisan-style bread at home, no bakery trip required.
- Recipe Card
Recipe Card
ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (95–100°F)
- 1 packet (8 grams) quick-rise instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Method
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and salt. Whisk until dissolved, about 20 seconds.
Step 2
Stir in the flour with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. If needed, adjust with 1 tablespoon of warm water or flour at a time—dough should be sticky but not wet.
Step 3
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 hours. (Tip: Cover with 3 dish towels and set in front of a sunny window.)
Step 4
Transfer dough to a floured sheet of parchment paper. Lightly flour your hands and fold the dough a few times to form a loose ball. Cover and let rest for another 30 minutes.
Step 5
While the dough rests, place a Dutch oven in the oven and preheat to 450°F for 30 minutes.
Step 6
Carefully transfer the dough (with parchment paper) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 7
Uncover and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes. For extra crunch, broil for 2–3 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 8
Let the bread rest for 20–30 minutes before slicing.