Artisan Bread XL | Extra Large and Flavorful Homemade Bread

bread flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

sourdough starter

🥗Healthier: commercial yeast

💰Cheaper: none

Commercial yeast is easier to find and speeds up the process.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier with a similar flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds a unique flavor.

Activate the yeast by combining it with sugar, vinegar, and warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, add salt and flour. Mix well to combine.

Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until all the flour is incorporated and no dry patches remain.

Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rest for 2 hours, allowing it to rise and develop flavors.

Fold in all sides of the dough to release any excess air and enhance the structure.

Proof the dough for an additional 1 hour, giving it time to rise and develop a nice texture.

Add lots of flour on the board to prevent it from sticking. Be sure to add extra flour on your hands so it's easier to shape the dough.

Preheat the Dutch oven to 450°F (230°C) while the dough proofs.

Carefully transfer the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, ensuring it is evenly shaped.

Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and bake the bread for 40 minutes.

After 40 minutes, remove the lid and parchment paper (if used) and continue baking for an extra 3 to 5 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden crust.

Once baked, remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens