A Slice of Heaven: Simple Crusty White Bread
Are you ready to indulge in the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen? There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a slice of simple crusty white bread, with its golden crust and soft, pillowy interior. Imagine slathering a pat of butter on a warm slice while the steam still rises, or using it to soak up your favorite soup. This recipe is not only simple to follow, but it’s also fast, taking just a few hours from start to finish, making it perfect for a family weekend project. Did you know that the simple act of baking bread can bring everyone together? It’s a comforting ritual passed down through generations, making this crusty bread an ideal choice for any home cook. If you’re already a fan of homemade bread, then you might want to check out our no-knead bread recipe too! Both are equally delightful; after all, who wouldn’t want to warm their home and heart with these baking delights? So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making this delicious bread!
What is Simple Crusty White Bread?
Simple Crusty White Bread might sound like a fancy bakery special, but it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding recipes you can whip up at home! Ever wondered why it’s called “simple”? Perhaps it’s because, with just a handful of basic ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from crusty, brown perfection. Who would’ve thought that flour, water, salt, and yeast could create a masterpiece that makes your heart skip a beat? It’s almost like the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this bread might just have the power to charm everyone in your household! So, why not roll up your sleeves, have some fun, and give this easy recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Crusty White Bread:
What sets this Simple Crusty White Bread apart is its wonderfully crispy crust, coupled with a soft, airy interior that’s simply begging for a spread of your favorite toppings. Not only is it super delicious, but making your own bread is a cost-effective choice, allowing you to enjoy bakery-fresh flavors right at home. The smell of baking bread is a treat in itself, and the best part? You can customize your loaf! Whether you prefer a sprinkle of sea salt on top, or perhaps mixing in some herbs, you can get as creative as you would like. Think of it as being similar to our garlic bread recipe, but with a the added satisfaction of making it from scratch. So, why not take the plunge and make this bread for your next family dinner? You won’t regret it!
How to Make Simple Crusty White Bread:
Quick Overview
This Simple Crusty White Bread recipe is a breeze to make and is packed with flavor! The highlight is the beautiful crust that forms during baking, giving you that bakery-style bread without the hassle. You can enjoy this delightful loaf in about 3 hours, including rising time!
Key Ingredients for Simple Crusty White Bread:
To craft your delicious crusty bread loaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1000g all-purpose flour (+ extra for dusting)
- 700g water (divide if using active dry yeast)
- 22g salt
- 4g instant yeast / 5g active dry yeast / 10g fresh yeast
- 1 tsp neutral oil (for greasing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water (add a mixture of dissolved yeast in warm water if using active dry yeast) until a uniform dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 15-60 minutes.
- Add Yeast & Salt: Now, mix in the salt and yeast until smooth. Knead the dough using a stand mixer for about 3-5 minutes, or if you prefer to use your hands, knead until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise & Folding: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it all up, and let it rest for 30 minutes. During this time, stretch and fold the dough four times, then let it rise for 1.5 hours.
- Divide & Shape: Move the dough to a floured surface, divide it into two portions, and shape them into balls. Allow them to rest for another 15 minutes before shaping again. Place the shaped loaves seam-side up in floured cloth-lined bowls, letting them rise for 1-1.5 hours.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a Dutch oven placed on the bottom rack to heat up.
- Bake: Carefully turn out the dough into the preheated Dutch oven. Score the top of the dough and spritz with water to create steam. Cover and bake for 15 minutes at 500°F, then reduce the temperature to 450°F (235°C) and bake for another 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until it’s a lovely dark brown.
- Cool & Repeat: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour. Repeat this process for the second loaf if you made two!
What to Serve Simple Crusty White Bread With:
This Simple Crusty White Bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! Enjoy it alongside a hearty bowl of minestrone soup or a fresh garden salad. It’s also a fantastic base for classic avocado toast or topped with your favorite spreads and cheeses for a delightful appetizer. The crusty exterior and soft interior make it a versatile addition to any meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting Simple Crusty White Bread:
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you ever run out of all-purpose flour, feel free to use bread flour for a chewier texture!
- Timing Adjustments: Different climates can affect rising time. If your kitchen is cooler, you may need to allow for extra rising time.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid over-kneading the dough; it can result in dense bread. Trust your instincts and stop once the dough is smooth!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Once your bread has cooled completely, it’s best to store it in a plastic bag at room temperature, where it can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it in foil and freezing it, where it can last for a month. To reheat, simply place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and the crust regains its crispness.
Now that you’ve got all the insider tips and the recipe itself, grab your ingredients and let’s enjoy the wonderful world of homemade bread baking together! Happy baking!
A Slice of Heaven: Simple Crusty White Bread
Ingredients
- 1000 g all-purpose flour + extra for dusting
- 700 g water divide if using active dry yeast
- 22 g salt
- 4 g instant yeast / 5g active dry yeast / 10g fresh yeast
- 1 tsp neutral oil for greasing
Instructions
- Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and water (add a mixture of dissolved yeast in warm water if using active dry yeast) until a uniform dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 15-60 minutes.
- Add Yeast & Salt: Now, mix in the salt and yeast until smooth. Knead the dough using a stand mixer for about 3-5 minutes, or if you prefer to use your hands, knead until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise & Folding: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it all up, and let it rest for 30 minutes. During this time, stretch and fold the dough four times, then let it rise for 1.5 hours.
- Divide & Shape: Move the dough to a floured surface, divide it into two portions, and shape them into balls. Allow them to rest for another 15 minutes before shaping again. Place the shaped loaves seam-side up in floured cloth-lined bowls, letting them rise for 1-1.5 hours.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a Dutch oven placed on the bottom rack to heat up.
- Bake: Carefully turn out the dough into the preheated Dutch oven. Score the top of the dough and spritz with water to create steam. Cover and bake for 15 minutes at 500°F, then reduce the temperature to 450°F (235°C) and bake for another 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until it’s a lovely dark brown.
- Cool & Repeat: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour. Repeat this process for the second loaf if you made two!
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