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Baking

Simple Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

This is a perfect beginner loaf with a golden crust and a soft, airy center made entirely in your favorite Dutch oven.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· August 26, 2026
Simple Crusty Dutch Oven Bread
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
45 minutes
Total
13 hours
Serves
8

There is something truly special about baking a loaf of bread in a Dutch oven. The heavy lid traps the steam inside which creates that beautiful, crispy crust we all love while keeping the middle perfectly soft and chewy.

Since this bread uses only four simple pantry ingredients, it is a wonderful way to fill your home with the smell of fresh baking. My biggest tip is to make sure your pot is fully preheated in the oven before you drop the dough in because that initial heat is the secret to a great rise.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast.

  2. 2

    Pour in the warm water and stir until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.

  3. 3

    Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm spot for about 12 to 18 hours.

  4. 4

    Place your Dutch oven into the oven and preheat to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 30 minutes.

  5. 5

    Turn the dough out onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a loose ball.

  6. 6

    Carefully lift the parchment paper and dough, placing it into the hot Dutch oven.

  7. 7

    Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.

  8. 8

    Remove the lid and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.

  9. 9

    Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before you slice it.

💡 Tips

Store your bread in a paper bag or a bread box to keep the crust crunchy. If you have leftovers, this bread makes excellent toast for breakfast or sandwiches. You can also freeze slices for up to one month if you want to keep them fresh for longer.

#Baking#Bread#Vegetarian#Vegan#Homemade

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