This easy Homemade Artisan Bread recipe delivers a crusty, golden exterior and a soft, airy interior. With just a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, you can bake a loaf of fresh bread perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees bakery-style results at home.

Preparation Time

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes

• • Rise Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Ingredients (Cups and Grams)

• • Warm water: 375 ml (1½ cups)
  • Sugar: ½ tablespoon (7 g)

• • Dry yeast: 7 g (about 2¼ teaspoons)
  • Flour: 500 g (4 cups), plus extra for dusting
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (6 g)

• Sunflower oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)

Directions

• • Activate the Yeast
    • • In a bowl, combine 50 ml warm water, ½ tablespoon sugar, and 7 g dry yeast. Mix thoroughly and let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
  • Make the Dough
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with 375 ml warm water. Gradually add 500 g sifted flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until a dough forms.

• • Knead the Dough
    • Add sunflower oil and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is sticky.
  • First Rise
    • • Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the Dough
    • Sprinkle a clean surface with flour. Stretch and fold the dough, then form it into a ball. Dust lightly with flour.

• • Second Rise
    • Line a baking pan with parchment paper and dust with flour. Place the dough in the pan, cover, and let it rise until doubled.
  • Preheat the Oven
    • • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Make Cuts and Bake
    • Once risen, make slashes on the dough’s surface. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

• Cool the Bread
  • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• • Pair with soups, stews, or salads for a complete meal.
  • Serve with butter, jam, or olive oil for dipping.
  • Use as a base for sandwiches or toast.

Cooking Tips

• • Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water temperature is between 37-43°C (100-110°F) for activating the yeast.
  • For a crispier crust, place a small tray of water in the oven while baking.

• Avoid over-flouring the dough, as it may become dense.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

• Contains no artificial additives or preservatives.
• Provides carbohydrates for energy.

Dietary Information

• • Suitable for vegetarians.
  • Dairy-free.
  • Can be made vegan by using plant-based oils.

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx.)

• • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 4 g

• • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1 g

• Sodium: 120 mg

Storage

• • Store at room temperature in a bread bag or airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze sliced bread in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before use.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Easy to follow and beginner-friendly.

• • Requires only basic pantry ingredients.
  • Produces bakery-style bread at home.
  • Versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Conclusion
This Homemade Artisan Bread is the perfect addition to any table, offering a rustic touch with its golden crust and soft interior. The step-by-step process ensures that anyone can achieve beautiful results, whether you’re baking for your family or a special occasion. Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home and the satisfaction of making it yourself.