Best Homemade Bread Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen is a sensory experience that captivates the soul. Homemade artisan bread is not just food; it’s an art form that connects us to centuries of tradition and cultural significance. In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to create a loaf of bread from scratch can be incredibly rewarding. You experience the tactile pleasure of kneading dough and the anticipation of a perfect crust forming in the oven. This article will guide you through the entire process of making the Ultimate Artisan Bread Delight, from understanding the essential ingredients to mastering the techniques that will elevate your baking skills.

Experience the joy of bringing the aroma of freshly baked artisan bread into your home with this Ultimate Artisan Bread Delight recipe. Learn the essential ingredients and techniques for crafting a perfect loaf with a crusty exterior and airy interior. This article guides you through each step, from activating yeast to achieving an impressive rise, while sharing tips for flavor variations and serving suggestions. Discover the rewarding art of baking and impress friends and family with your delicious creations!

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Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

2 teaspoons sea salt

1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for yeast activation)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for a richer flavor)

¼ cup cornmeal (for dusting the baking surface)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and honey or sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy on top.

Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Bread: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf. Place it onto a baking sheet that has been dusted with cornmeal.

Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a towel again and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes until it has puffed up.

Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to heat up for a crispier crust.

Prepare for Baking: Just before placing the dough in the oven, use a sharp knife or bread lame to make a few shallow slashes across the top of the loaf (this allows it to expand without bursting).

Bake: Transfer the loaf to the preheated baking stone or sheet. For an extra crispy crust, you can add some steam by placing a shallow pan filled with hot water at the bottom of the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 3 hours | 12 slices