Simple, Delicious, and Perfect Every Time

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen. The comforting aroma, the crusty exterior, and the soft, airy inside make homemade bread a treat like no other. If the thought of baking bread intimidates you, don’t worry—this 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread recipe is here to change your mind. With minimal ingredients, no kneading, and a foolproof method, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who’s ever been daunted by traditional bread baking. Here’s why it’s amazing:

• Minimal Ingredients: All you need is flour, yeast, salt, and water—no fancy ingredients required.
• Effortless Method: Forget complicated techniques. This is a no-knead bread recipe that practically makes itself.
• Customizable: Shape it into a boule, baguette, or two small loaves to suit your preference.
• Perfect Every Time: With a little patience and the right tools, this bread comes out beautifully golden and crusty every time.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to elevate your everyday meals, this artisan bread is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

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

Simple ingredients, yet the results are absolutely magical.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Dough

Combine the flour, salt, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour in the warm water (ensure it’s not too hot, as this can kill the yeast). Use a dough whisk, spatula, or even your hands to mix until combined. The dough should feel slightly wet and sticky. If it’s too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap sprayed with nonstick spray. Let the dough rest for at least 2 hours (or up to 10 hours) at room temperature. For a more complex flavor, let it rise overnight. This resting period allows the yeast to work its magic, fermenting and developing the dough.

2. Shape the Dough

When the dough is ready, it will look puffy and bubbly. Lightly flour your work surface and wet your hands to prevent sticking. Turn the dough out gently and fold the edges toward the center to shape it into a boule (round loaf) or divide it into two smaller loaves.

Place the shaped dough on parchment paper. Lightly dust the top with flour and use a sharp bread knife to score 1-4 lines across the top. This allows the bread to expand beautifully as it bakes. Let the dough rest for another 20-30 minutes while you preheat your oven.

3. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 450°F and place a baking stone, pizza stone, Dutch oven, or cast-iron skillet inside to heat up. Once hot, carefully transfer the dough (still on the parchment paper) onto the preheated surface.

For an extra-crusty exterior, create steam in the oven. Place a small broiler pan with 1 cup of hot water or toss in 5 ice cubes at the bottom of the oven. This traps steam, giving your bread that classic artisan crust.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl
• Dough whisk, spatula, or wooden spoon
• Parchment paper
• Sharp bread knife
• Baking stone, pizza stone, Dutch oven, or cast-iron skillet
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Cooling rack

Tips and Variations

• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
• Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an herby twist.
• Cheese Lovers: Fold in shredded cheese or sprinkle Parmesan on top before baking.
• Sweet Bread: Add a tablespoon of honey or sugar to the dough for a slightly sweeter loaf.

Storing Leftovers

Homemade bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in a paper bag to maintain the crusty exterior. Avoid plastic bags, as they can make the crust soft. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? A: Yes, but you’ll need to activate it first. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly before adding it to the dry ingredients.

Q: What if I don’t have a baking stone or Dutch oven? A: A cast-iron skillet works well as a substitute. You can also use a regular baking sheet, though the crust might not be as crisp.

Q: How can I tell if my bread is fully baked? A: The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 200°F is a good indicator of doneness.

Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger bowl and adjust baking times as needed.

Pairings

This versatile bread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Soups and Stews: Perfect for dipping into hearty broths.
• Cheese Boards: Serve sliced bread with a selection of cheeses, fruits, and jams.
• Breakfast: Toast it and top with butter, jam, or avocado for a quick breakfast.
• Wine: Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a simple yet elegant pairing.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Artisan Bread recipe is proof that simplicity is often the key to greatness. With a few pantry staples and a little patience, you can create bakery-worthy bread at home. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

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