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Easy Artisan Bread

A simple, no-knead artisan bread recipe that produces a beautiful, crusty loaf with minimal effort, perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Components
  • 1 cup warm water Activates the yeast.
  • 2 teaspoons yeast Provides leavening for the bread.
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt Enhances flavor and controls fermentation.
  • 3 cups whole wheat flour Adds nutrition and flavor.
  • 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour Contributes to the dough's structure and texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Mix yeast and salt in a bowl and add warm water.
  2. Add all the flour and mix until combined.
  3. Mix at a higher speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or knead by hand for a minute.
  4. Place in a large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let set at room temperature for about 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
  5. Optionally refrigerate the dough for up to a week or bake right away.
Baking
  1. Preheat a Dutch oven in a 450°F oven.
  2. Dust the dough with flour, cut off half, and shape into a ball on parchment paper.
  3. Let sit on the counter for 30 minutes if fresh or 1 hour if refrigerated.
  4. Slash the top of the loaf with a serrated knife.
  5. Transfer to the hot Dutch oven, cover with a lid and bake for 15 to 17 minutes.
  6. Remove lid and continue to bake for another 15 to 17 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Remove from the Dutch oven and cool on a rack for 30 to 60 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For best results, use warm water (around 110°F). Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. Don't rush the shaping to maintain air pockets. Consider adding herbs, cheese, or seeds for variations.