This Quick and Crunchy Bread recipe is perfect for a quick, delicious homemade loaf that requires minimal effort. With just a few basic ingredients, you can achieve a crispy crust and a soft, airy interior—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No fuss: Simple ingredients and easy steps.
- Fast prep: It requires minimal kneading and proofing.
- Crispy crust: Preheating the Dutch oven gives the bread a crunchy outer layer.
- Soft inside: Despite its crunch, the bread stays soft and fluffy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (360 g) flour – preferably white spelled or white wheat flour
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) warm water
- 2 teaspoons dry yeast (7 g)
- 2 heaping teaspoons salt (10 g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups (360 g) of flour, 2 teaspoons dry yeast (7 g), and 2 heaping teaspoons of salt (10 g).
- Gradually pour in 1.5 cups (360 ml) warm water while stirring with a spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. Ensure that all the flour is incorporated into the dough.
2. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment and knead for 5 minutes on medium speed.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour at room temperature, or leave it in the fridge overnight for a slower rise and richer flavor.
4. Preheat the Oven:
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place a Dutch oven or a heavy baking dish with a lid in the oven to preheat along with the oven. This ensures a steamy environment, giving the bread a crispy crust.
5. Shape the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Shape it into a round loaf by gently folding the edges toward the center.
- Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven, place the dough inside, and use a sharp knife to make a couple of slashes on top of the dough. This helps it expand as it bakes.
6. Bake the Bread:
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the bread has a deep golden-brown crust.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Once done, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy the crunchy crust and soft interior with your favorite spreads, butter, or toppings!
Tips for Success:
- Weigh your ingredients: Using a kitchen scale for flour and water ensures the perfect texture.
- Warm water: Make sure the water is warm (around 110°F / 43°C) to activate the yeast.
- Let it rise: Allowing the dough to rise overnight will enhance the flavor, but a quick 1-hour rise will also work well.
Now, you’re all set to enjoy a quick and easy homemade loaf with just a few simple steps. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and spreads, and try this bread for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and stews.
