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My Foolproof Recipe for the BEST Dutch Oven Bread


  • Author: Jessica

Ingredients

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
  • Bread Flour: 1 cup
  • Active Dry Yeast: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Water: 1 cup (warm, about 100°F)

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
  2. Gradually add warm water and stir using a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8–24 hours. This allows the dough to ferment and develop flavor.

2. Prepare for Baking:

  1. After the resting period, lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough onto it.
  2. Shape the dough into a ball by folding the edges toward the center.
  3. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper and let it rise for 30–45 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with the Dutch oven inside to heat it thoroughly.

3. Bake the Bread:

  1. Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven and place the parchment paper with the dough into it.
  2. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

4. Cool and Serve:

  1. Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

Notes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Rest Time: 8–24 hours

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 9–25 hours

Servings: 1 loaf