How to Bake Bread
Learn how to bake bread with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow our easy instructions to get it done right.
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0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Mix Ingredients and Form Dough
Step 1: Mix Ingredients and Form Dough
Combine flour, water, yeast, and salt. Mix until shaggy dough forms, then knead 8-10 minutes.
Bread Baking Book for Beginners
Complete guide to artisan bread making
Digital Kitchen Scale
Precise measurement for consistent bread results
Dough Scraper Set
Bench scrapers for handling and cutting dough
2 Step 2: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Step 2: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Place dough in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in warm spot until doubled (1-2 hours).
Proofing Basket
Banneton basket for shaping and rising bread
Bread Lame
Scoring tool for creating patterns on bread crust
3 Step 3: Shape the Dough
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Punch down dough, shape into desired form (loaf, boule, baguette), creating surface tension.
Loaf Pan Set
Non-stick bread pans in multiple sizes
4 Step 4: Second Rise (Proofing)
Step 4: Second Rise (Proofing)
Let shaped dough rise again for 30-60 minutes until puffy and passes the poke test.
Kitchen Thermometer
Monitor dough and oven temperature accurately
5 Step 5: Preheat Oven and Score Dough
Step 5: Preheat Oven and Score Dough
Heat oven to 450°F with Dutch oven inside. Score top of dough with sharp blade in pattern.
Dutch Oven for Bread
Enameled cast iron pot perfect for artisan bread
6 Step 6: Bake and Cool
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake 30-40 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped. Cool completely before slicing.
Bread Knife
Serrated knife for clean slicing without crushing
Cooling Rack
Wire rack for proper bread cooling