There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of fresh bread baking in your home. This Homemade Artisan Bread is one of those timeless recipes that reminds us how little it takes to create something truly special. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and a simple no-knead method, you can bake a loaf that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery.
Thank you for being here with me today. It truly means so much that you trust me to share recipes that bring warmth, comfort, and confidence into your kitchen. This bread is a favorite because it’s approachable, reliable, and endlessly useful — perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Artisan Bread
• No kneading required
• Crispy, golden crust with a soft, chewy inside
• Made with simple pantry staples
• Perfect for sandwiches, soups, and toast
• Beginner-friendly with bakery-quality results
• Naturally rustic and beautifully imperfect
What It Tastes Like
This bread has a crackly, golden crust that gives way to a soft, airy interior with just the right amount of chew. The flavor is mild, slightly nutty, and comforting — perfect on its own with butter, dipped into olive oil, or used as the base for sandwiches and toast.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours + 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours
WW Points: 7 per serving (approximate)
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1¼ cups warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for softer crumb)
Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Clean kitchen towel
Baking sheet or loaf pan
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
How to Make Homemade Artisan Bread
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and instant yeast until evenly distributed.
2. Add the Water
Slowly pour in the warm water (and olive oil, if using).
Stir with a spoon until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
The dough will look rough — this is exactly what you want.
3. First Rise
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel.
Place it in a warm, draft-free spot and let the dough rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly on the surface.
4. Shape the Dough
Lightly flour a work surface.
Gently turn the dough out onto the surface and shape it into a loose round loaf.
Do not overwork the dough — gentle handling keeps the texture airy.
5. Second Rise
Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a lightly greased loaf pan.
Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes.
6. Bake
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
If desired, use a sharp knife to score the top of the loaf.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Cool Before Slicing
Transfer the bread to a cooling rack.
Let cool completely before slicing — this helps the interior set properly.
Ingredient Variations
• Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder or dried herbs for flavor
• Replace ½ cup flour with whole wheat flour
• Brush crust with olive oil after baking for a softer finish
• Sprinkle flour on top before baking for a rustic look
Serving Suggestions
This bread is perfect:
• With soups and stews
• Toasted with butter or jam
• As sandwich bread
• Dipped in olive oil and balsamic
• Alongside pasta or salads
Tips for Best Results
• Use warm, not hot, water
• Do not rush the rising time
• Handle the dough gently
• Let the bread cool fully before cutting
• Store uncovered the first day for crisp crust
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature:
Store loosely wrapped for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator:
Not recommended — it dries the bread.
Freezer:
Freeze sliced bread for up to 2 months.
Toast directly from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes — dissolve it in warm water first and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
Why is my dough sticky?
That’s normal. Sticky dough creates an airy, chewy crumb.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — divide into two loaves after the first rise.
Do I need a Dutch oven?
No. This recipe works beautifully without one.
Conclusion
This Homemade Artisan Bread proves that great bread doesn’t need complicated techniques or special equipment. With patience, simple ingredients, and a little time, you can bake a loaf that fills your home with warmth and your table with comfort.
