The homemade bread you bake with this recipe will boast a perfectly crisp crust and a soft, airy interior. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is nothing short of enchanting, drawing everyone in with its warm, yeasty scent. This artisan bread achieves a delightful balance between a chewy, hearty crumb and a golden, crackling exterior that makes each slice irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. If using olive oil, add it to the well as well. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). For a crispier crust, place a small dish of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam.
- Bake the Bread: Bake the dough for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. For a softer crust, brush the top with melted butter right after baking.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
