Freshly baked bread
Something I told myself this year was that I was going to bake more. This is 4 ingredient bread.
- 3 1/4 all purpose or bread flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cup warm water (think body temperature)
- 1 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1. Mix the warm water, salt, and yeast into a medium mixing bowl until dissolved. I usually mix with a whisk.
2. Mix in the flour u til you get a sticky dough with no big clumps of flour.
3. Cover with a cloth and let rest in a warm area for 1.5-2 hours. Mine doubled in size in just over a hour.
4. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232.22 Celsius). If you are using a Dutch oven, leave it in while the oven is preheating.
5. Place the dough onto a lightly floured piece of parchment paper. You can add a scored design if you like. I just used a sharp knife to score a single line.
6. Bake for 30 minutes covered. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
7. After it’s out of the oven I place on a wire rack and let it cool before slicing.
It’s super easy and delicious! Enjoy! #baking #bakingforbeginners #artisanbread
Baking homemade bread can be a rewarding experience, especially with simple recipes like this one that require minimal ingredients. In just a few easy steps, you can create a warm, crusty loaf that’s perfect for toasting or enjoying with your favorite spreads. Bread made with all-purpose or bread flour, yeast, warm water, and salt can yield impressive results. Active dry yeast works well for this recipe, allowing for a light and airy texture once baked. The process begins with mixing warm water (ideally at body temperature) with salt and yeast until dissolved. This is a crucial step, as it activates the yeast—which is responsible for helping the bread rise. Once combined, adding flour is essential; ensure there are no clumps for a smooth, sticky dough. After letting it rise in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours, the dough should roughly double in size, indicating it's ready for the next step. Preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) while preparing the dough is key to achieving that perfect crust when baking. Placing the dough on parchment paper and scoring the top not only adds a decorative touch but also allows for steam to escape, creating the classic crust you love. Baking covered for the first half of the total time keeps the moisture in, while the last 15 minutes should be uncovered to form that golden-brown crust. Once your bread is baked, letting it cool on a wire rack is vital to prevent a gummy texture. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with some butter, jam, or as the base for a delicious sandwich!
