Rustic Bread Loaf
A simple and rewarding rustic bread loaf with a crusty exterior and soft, chewy interior, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups warm water Make sure it’s warm, not hot.
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast Can substitute with instant yeast.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add salt and flour gradually, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing.
Notes
Store in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer. You can also experiment with adding herbs or garlic for added flavor.