Making homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated! This Dutch Oven Bread Recipe is proof (pun intended) that with just four simple ingredients, you can bake a beautiful loaf with a crackly crust and soft, flavorful interior.
I’ve been wanting to start my sourdough journey, but before diving into the world of starters and fermentation, I decided to try this easy Dutch Oven bread first. It’s so simple, yet incredibly satisfying—and it turned out so delicious that I know I’ll be making it often. This recipe not only gave me confidence in bread baking but also got me excited to take the next step into sourdough!
If you’ve ever thought bread baking was intimidating, this Dutch Oven Bread Recipe is the perfect place to start.
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Ingredients:
Here’s what you need for this easy Dutch Oven Bread Recipe:
- 1 packet of yeast
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 4 cups of flour (plus some for when you knead the dough)
- Dutch Oven (this is the one I got)
- Avocado oil (or any oil you have) to put in the bowl when the dough rises so it doesn’t stick (not counting this as an ingredient. Just need a tiny bit so the dough doesn’t stick to the bowl)
Instructions:
- Mix the Dough: Combine the yeast, warm water, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then, mix in the flour. Mix until the dough starts to come together. It will be sticky.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it until it forms a cohesive ball. Return the dough to the bowl (add a bit of avocado oil to the bowl to prevent sticking) and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it rise for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Preheat the Dutch Oven: While the dough is rising, place your Dutch oven (with the lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F for the final 45 minutes of rise time.
Baking:
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently fold it over a few times, forming it into a round loaf or desired shape.
- Sprinkle a small amount of flour on the bottom of the hot Dutch oven to prevent sticking. Place the dough inside, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes to develop a golden, crispy crust.
Cooling:
Take the bread out of the Dutch oven and let it cool for at least 1 hour (up to 3 hours). I set mine on this cutting board. Listen to the delightful crackle as it cools—one of the most satisfying parts of this Dutch Oven Bread Recipe!
Tips for Success:
- Always use a hot Dutch oven for the best crust.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to preserve its texture.
This Dutch Oven Bread Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone looking to bake homemade bread without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
If you’re new to bread baking, this recipe is a perfect starting point. It’s simple, forgiving, and delivers amazing results every time. For seasoned bakers, it’s a great go-to recipe for those days when you want something effortless yet impressive.
I can’t wait to continue experimenting with bread, especially as I dive into sourdough baking! But no matter where your bread journey takes you, this easy Dutch Oven Bread Recipe will always be one to return to. Give it a try, and don’t forget to listen for that satisfying crackle as the bread cools—it’s the sound of homemade perfection!
Happy baking!
To see this process in real time, check out my video HERE.
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