Artisan Bread Recipe

Name: Artisan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: General
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour; ½ tablespoon kosher salt; ¼ ounce instant or active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons); 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F)

Published: August 29, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You only need flour, salt, yeast, and warm water—no complicated elements.
No Kneading Required: Just mix and let the dough rise; it’s almost effortless!
Flavorful Crust: The steam created while baking gives the bread a beautiful golden crust and enhances the flavor.
Versatile Uses: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or use it for sandwiches and dips.
Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to baking bread, this recipe is foolproof!

Tools and Preparation

To make this artisan bread successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. They help ensure that your bread comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking stone or Dutch oven
Parchment paper
Bread knife
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space for the dough to rise without spilling over.
Baking stone or Dutch oven: These tools provide even heat distribution for a perfect crust.
Parchment paper: It makes transferring the dough easy and prevents sticking during baking.

Ingredients

This no-knead artisan bread is the easiest bread recipe you’ll ever make! With just three simple ingredients and minimal effort, it yields a crusty, flavorful loaf with a tender crumb—perfect for beginners.

For the Bread

3 cups (395 grams) all-purpose flour or bread flour
½ tablespoon kosher salt
¼ ounce instant or active dry yeast packet (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
1 ½ cups warm water (105°F)

How to Make Artisan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Add Water

Pour warm water over the dry ingredients. Mix until combined; the dough should be sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Let Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise at room temperature for 2 to 10 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Wet your hands to prevent sticking; turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently fold edges into the center to form either one round loaf or divide into two loaves.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Place shaped dough on parchment paper. Dust the top with flour and score 1 to 4 lines using a bread knife. Let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place your baking stone, pizza stone, Dutch oven, or iron skillet inside while it heats up.

Step 7: Create Steam in Oven

Slide your dough on parchment onto the hot surface. To create steam for a crustier loaf, add 1 cup of hot water or five ice cubes to the bottom of the oven quickly after closing it.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread

Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until your artisan bread is golden brown and crusty.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Remove from oven and cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Step 10: Store Properly

To maintain crispness of the crust, store bread in a paper bag rather than plastic.

How to Serve Artisan Bread Recipe

Artisan bread is versatile and can elevate any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside your main course, its crusty exterior and soft interior make it a favorite. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy your delicious artisan bread.

With Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

Drizzle high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar on a plate for dipping. This combination enhances the flavors of the bread beautifully.

As a Sandwich

Use slices of artisan bread to create gourmet sandwiches. Layer fresh ingredients like turkey, cheese, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Toasted with Garlic Butter

Spread garlic butter over slices and toast until golden brown. This makes for a delightful snack or side dish that pairs well with soups.

Paired with Cheese

Serve artisan bread alongside a selection of cheeses. Soft cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar complement its texture perfectly.

As Croutons for Salad

Cut leftover bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, and bake until crispy. These croutons add crunch to salads and soups.

With Soups and Stews

Enjoy artisan bread dipped into hearty soups or stews. Its robust crust holds up well against rich broths, making each bite satisfying.

How to Perfect Artisan Bread Recipe

Perfecting your artisan bread can take practice, but these tips will help you achieve exceptional results every time.

Use High-Quality Flour: Opt for all-purpose flour or bread flour with higher protein content for better gluten development, resulting in a chewier loaf.
Monitor Water Temperature: Ensure your water is warm but not hot (around 105°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
Longer Rise Equals Better Flavor: Allow the dough to rise longer (up to 10 hours) at room temperature for enhanced flavor and texture.
Create Steam in the Oven: Adding steam at the beginning of baking helps create a crustier exterior. Use ice cubes or hot water in the oven bottom.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Let your bread cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the crumb structure to set properly.
Experiment with Scoring: Score the top of your loaf creatively. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the bread to expand evenly while baking.

Best Side Dishes for Artisan Bread Recipe

Artisan bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving it.

Tomato Basil Soup: A classic pairing, this soup’s acidity complements the richness of artisan bread perfectly, making for a comforting meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing provides freshness that balances out the hearty nature of the bread.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition while their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory bread.
Bruschetta Toppings: Top toasted slices with diced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for an Italian-inspired appetizer bursting with flavor.
Charcuterie Board: Combine cured meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts on a board with sliced artisan bread for an elegant presentation perfect for gatherings.
French Onion Soup: The rich broth topped with melted cheese over toasted artisan bread creates an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.
Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served warm alongside slices of artisan bread makes for an irresistible starter at any party.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed bell peppers serve as a hearty complement to artisan bread, perfect for a well-rounded meal option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many beginners face challenges while making the artisan bread recipe. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Using cold water: Always use warm water (around 105°F) to activate the yeast effectively. Cold water can slow down the yeast activity, leading to poor rising.
Skipping the resting time: Allow the dough to rest for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor. Not giving it enough time may result in a dense loaf.
Not scoring the dough: Scoring helps control how the bread expands during baking. Failing to do so can lead to uneven shapes and crusts.
Removing bread too early from the oven: Ensure your artisan bread is golden brown before taking it out. Underbaking can result in a gummy texture inside.
Improper storage: Storing bread in plastic bags can make it lose its crusty texture. Instead, use a paper bag to keep it crisp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store artisan bread in a sealed container or plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
To maintain freshness, place a slice of apple or celery in the container, which helps retain moisture.

Freezing Artisan Bread Recipe

Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Artisan Bread Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Wrap slices in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds, but this may soften the crust.
Stovetop: Heat slices on a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side, ensuring they stay crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this artisan bread recipe with whole wheat flour?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but this may alter the texture slightly. Experiment with ratios to find what you like best.

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

The dough should rise for at least 2 hours at room temperature. For enhanced flavor, consider letting it rise overnight.

Can I add herbs or spices to my artisan bread recipe?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate herbs like rosemary or spices such as garlic powder into your dough for added flavor.

What makes this artisan bread recipe no-knead?

This recipe relies on long fermentation instead of kneading, allowing gluten development naturally over time.

Final Thoughts

This artisan bread recipe is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With just three ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious loaf that impresses everyone. Feel free to customize your bread by adding herbs or toppings of your choice. Enjoy your baking adventure!

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