Step-by-Step: Your First Loaf (Basic Yeast Bread)

 

1. Mix & Autolyse:

   • Combine 500 g flour, 350 g water, and 10 g salt in a bowl.

   • Let rest 20 minutes (autolyse) to hydrate the flour.

2. Add Yeast & Knead:

   • Sprinkle 7 g instant yeast over the dough.

   • Knead 8–10 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):

   • Cover and leave at room temperature for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.

4. Shape & Second Rise:

   • Lightly flour your surface, deflate the dough, shape into a tight round, and place in a floured proofing basket or bowl.

   • Cover and proof 45–60 minutes.

5. Preheat Oven & Bake:

   • Preheat to 230 °C (450 °F) with a Dutch oven inside.

   • Carefully transfer the dough into the hot pot, score the top, cover, and bake 20 minutes.

   • Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until deep golden brown.

6. Cool & Enjoy:

   • Let rest on a wire rack 1 hour before slicing—this allows the crumb to set.