The best recipe: Soft and crispy homemade bread!

Alright, let’s get you baking some soft and crispy homemade bread! This recipe strikes a wonderful balance between a soft, airy interior and a satisfyingly crunchy crust.

Ingredients:

• 500g (about 4 cups) bread flour (or strong all-purpose flour)
• 350ml (1 1/2 cups) warm water (about 105-115°F/40-46°C)
• 7g (1 packet or 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 10g (2 teaspoons) salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a softer crust)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. If using, add the olive oil.
3. Mix the Dough:
   • Mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium-low speed for 8-10 minutes.
   • If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-12 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into your desired form (round, oval, or loaf).
7. Second Rise:
   • Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Cover it loosely and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a Dutch oven or a baking stone, preheat it with the oven.
9. Bake:
   • If you are using a dutch oven, place the dough inside, and cover with the lid. If you are baking on a sheet pan, create steam in the oven by placing a oven safe pan on the bottom rack of the oven. Right before placing the bread into the oven, add a cup of hot water into the pan. This steam is what creates the crispy crust.
   • Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire ¹ rack before slici

Tips for Success:

• Warm Water: The water should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
• Kneading: Proper kneading is essential for a good texture.
• Proofing: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free place.
• Steam: Steam in the oven is crucial for a crispy crust.
• Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

Enjoy your delicious homemade bread!