Artisan Bread Recipes for Dutch Oven: The Ultimate Foolproof Method for Perfect Crust
Master the art of artisan bread recipes for Dutch oven baking with this foolproof, step-by-step method. Create bakery-quality loaves with a crispy crust and soft crumb right from your home kitchen!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-18 hours (includes bulk fermentation & proofing)
- Total Time: 24 hours (for optimal results)
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Category: Bread
- Cuisine: Artisan Baking
Ingredients
500g bread flour
350ml warm water (approx. 80°F / 27°C)
7g instant yeast
10g salt
Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil (for extra tenderness)
Optional Add-ins: herbs, seeds, cheese
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, instant yeast, and salt.
Gradually pour in warm water while mixing with a wooden spoon or hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel. Let rest for 30 minutes.
Perform 3 sets of stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes over the next 90 minutes.
After final fold, cover and bulk ferment at room temperature for 4–6 hours, until dough doubles.
Gently shape the dough into a round loaf using floured hands.
Place dough seam-side up in a floured proofing basket or lined bowl. Proof for 1-2 hours at room temp or overnight in the fridge.
Preheat Dutch oven at 450°F (230°C) for at least 30 minutes.
Carefully invert the dough onto parchment paper. Score the top with a sharp blade.
Place the dough with parchment into the Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove lid and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown.
Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For a more open crumb, increase hydration slightly (up to 75-80%) but be prepared for a stickier dough.
Cold-proofing overnight enhances flavor and makes scoring easier.
Use steam (with Dutch oven lid) to achieve that classic crusty artisan look.
Find it online: https://www.zestolla.com/artisan-bread-recipes-for-dutch-oven/