🥖 Homemade Crispy Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for slight sweetness and yeast activation)
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for flavor and softer crumb)
Instructions:
1. Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar (if using), and yeast.
- Let it 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.
- Stir until dough comes together.
3. Knead:
- Turn dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
4. First Rise:
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
5. Shape & Second Rise:
- Punch down dough and shape into a round or oval loaf.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
6. Preheat Oven & Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven (for steam—helps crust).
- Slash top of dough with a sharp knife or razor blade.
7. Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Tap bottom of loaf—should sound hollow.
8. Cool:
- Let bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
