Why This Recipe Works
✅ No fancy skills needed – Just mix, rise, and bake!
✅ Crispy, golden crust – Thanks to the Dutch oven’s steam trap.
✅ Chewy, airy crumb – Just like a rustic French boule.
✅ No commercial yeast? Try a sourdough version (see notes).
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups (360g) bread flour (or all-purpose in a pinch)
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp instant yeast (or active dry, see notes)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 100°F/38°C)
(Optional: 1 tbsp honey or sugar for a hint of sweetness.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix & Rise (Overnight)
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms (no kneading!).
- Cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temp for 12-18 hours (yes, it’s that easy!).
2. Shape & Second Rise
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and fold edges inward to form a round loaf.
- Place on parchment paper, cover with a towel, and rest for 30 mins.
3. Preheat & Bake
- Place empty Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for 30 mins.
- Carefully transfer dough (with parchment) into the hot Dutch oven.
- Cover and bake for 30 mins, then uncover and bake 10-15 mins until deep golden.
4. Cool & Crackle
- Let cool 1 hour before slicing (this finishes the crumb!).
Pro Tips for the Perfect Loaf
✔ Use a scale – Flour measurements vary by cup.
✔ Want more sourdough flavor? Extend the first rise to 24 hours.
✔ No parchment? Grease the Dutch oven well.
✔ Storage: Keep in a paper bag for 2 days (or freeze sliced).
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
With soup or stew – For dipping!
Toasted with olive oil & sea salt – Simple perfection.
As bruschetta or avocado toast – Next-level delicious.
Final Verdict: Bakery-Quality at Home!
This Dutch Oven Bread is crispy, chewy, and impossibly easy—proof that the best things in life are simple.
Bake a loaf today and savor the magic of homemade bread!