🍞 Homemade Soft Crusty Bread

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🍞 Homemade Soft Crusty Bread

📝 Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups warm water

• 2 tsp instant yeast

• 2 tsp sugar

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

5. Shape: Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf or boule. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

6. Second rise: Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

7. Score and bake: Make shallow cuts on top of the loaf. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crusty.

8. Cool: Let bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

✅ Tips for Success

• Use warm water (not hot) to activate yeast without killing it.

• Knead until dough is smooth for a better crumb.

• Let bread rise fully to get a soft interior and crusty exterior.

• Bake on a preheated baking sheet or stone for a crisp crust.

• Allow cooling before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.