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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/small-batch-crusty-bread-recipe/