Small Batch Crusty Bread Recipe

Introduction

Making crusty bread at home is easier than you might think, even in a small batch. This recipe yields a delicious, golden loaf with a crisp crust and soft interior, perfect for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2/3 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 to 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Step 2: In another bowl, mix the kosher salt with 1 cup of flour. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Add up to 2/3 cup more flour as needed.
3. Step 3: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Step 5: Punch down the dough lightly and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the loaf for about 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crisp.

Tips & Variations

• Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
• For extra crispiness, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• If dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour during kneading, but avoid adding too much.

Storage

Store leftover bread wrapped in a kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. To refresh the crust, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Avoid storing in plastic as it softens the crust.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same amount; just mix it directly with the flour without activating in water first.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; it should read about 200°F (93°C) inside.

Small Batch Crusty Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 120 reviews

A simple small batch recipe for homemade crusty bread with a golden crust and soft interior, perfect for six servings. This easy-to-follow method uses active dry yeast and requires minimal ingredients, resulting in a delicious freshly baked loaf in under an hour and a half.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Yeast Mixture

• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2/3 cup warm water

Dough

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 to 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix Dough: In a separate large bowl, combine the kosher salt and begin adding the all-purpose flour gradually while stirring. Continue until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm location for about one hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet and allow it to rise again for 30 minutes, uncovered.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the loaf on the baking sheet for approximately 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Notes

• Use warm water (around 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Adjust flour quantity as needed since humidity and flour type can affect dough consistency.
• Allow proper rising times to achieve a light and airy texture.
• For an extra crusty loaf, place a pan of water in the oven to create steam while baking.
• Make sure the loaf cools before slicing to prevent doughy texture inside.

Keywords: crusty bread, homemade bread, small batch bread, easy bread recipe